072022 - Southern California Midweek Edition

JULY 20-22, 2022 Volume 32 - No. 57 • 14 Pages

USA

DATELINE Fil-Am community converges in Cerritos for Philippine-American Friendship Day FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

CERRITOS, Calif. — The Filipino American community of Southern California recently came together at the Don Knabe Community Regional Park for the Philippine-American Friendship Day hosted by the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA)-Greater Los Angeles.

This year’s celebration theme, “Together We Rise. The Time Is Now," is a fitting tribute to the accomplishments of everyday Filipino Americans who have made California their home and who have realized their American Dream.

NaFFAA’s core values are civic engagement, leadership development, economic empowerment as well as other national advocacies.

Los Angeles County alone has an estimated 500,000 Filipino Americans. Attendees came from as far as San Diego, Temecula and Palmdale, and nearby Orange County.

Entertainers with diverse specialties and genres wowed the crowd estimated at 3,000, which included vendors, customers, entertainers, members of non-profit organizations and fans. They descended  PAGE 3

Most Filipinos trust results of May elections – Pulse Asia

by PIA LEE-BRAGO

credible, according to a Pulse Asia survey released on Monday, July 18.

During a virtual forum, Pulse Asia Research MANILA — Most Filipino adults trust that the president Ronald Holmes presented the results results of the May 2022 elections are accurate and of the survey on the Filipino voter’s perception of Philstar.com

Marcos invites Filipinos to listen to first SONA

by ALEXIS

ROMERO Philstar.com

Boost now or wait?

Many wonder how best to ride out Metro Manila to remain under COVID’s next wave

MEN AT WORK. Workers install rail line tracks of the Metro Rail Transit- Line 7 (MRT-7) along Don Antonio Road in front of St. Peter Parish Church on Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City on Monday, July 18. MRT-7 will have 14 stations, 10 of which will be elevated.

PNA photo by Ben Briones

GWYNETH Paige didn’t want to get vaccinated against COVID-19 at first. With her health issues — hypertension, fibromyalgia, asthma — she wanted to see how other people fared after the shots. Then her mother got colon cancer.

“At that point, I didn’t care if the vaccine killed me,” she said. “To be with my mother throughout her journey, I had to have the vaccination.”

Paige, who is 56 and lives in Detroit, has received three doses. That leaves her one booster short of federal health recommendations.

Like Paige, who said she doesn’t currently plan to get another booster, some Americans seem comfortable with the protection of three shots. But others may wonder what to do:  PAGE 4

MANILA — President Marcos has invited Filipinos to listen to his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 25, where he will discuss his key policies and priorities as the country’s 17th Chief Executive.

“Nalalapit na ang ating pinaka-unang State of the Nation Address (Our first SONA is approaching),” Marcos said in a Facebook post published last Sunday.

“Samahan niyo po ako at pakinggan ang estado ng ating bansa at ang mga plano at mithiin natin bilang isang sambayanan para sa mga susunod na taon (Join me and listen as I talk about the state of our country and our plans and aspirations as a nation in the succeeding years),” he added.

Marcos’ first SONA will be held more than three weeks after he assumed office and on the same day that the 19th Congress will formally open session.

He is expected to enumerate his priority bills and to ask Congress to pass measures that will help his administration carry out its programs.

The President will also present the details of the  PAGE 2

Alert Level 1 until July 31 – DOH

by ZACARIAN

SARAO

Inquirer.net

METRO Manila, along with dozens of other regions and areas will continue to be under Alert Level 1 status from July 16 to 31, the Department of Health (DOH) announced on Tuesday, July 19.

The DOH, in a statement, also announced that General Santos City and 18 other local government units (LGUs) were deescalated to the most relaxed alert level status.

With this, all areas under Alert Level 1 are the following: • Metro Manila • Cordillera Administrative Region: Abra, Apayao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Baguio City;

• Region I: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, and Dagupan City • Region II: Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and City of Santiago • Region III: Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Angeles City, and Olongapo City • Region IV-A: Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, and Lucena City • Region IV-B: Marinduque, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, and Puerto Princesa City and • Region V: Albay, Catanduanes, Naga President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. City, and Sorsogon.

• Region VI: Aklan, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo Province, Bacolod City, and Iloilo City • Region VII: Siquijor, Cebu City, Lapu PAGE 4

Boracay, Palawan and Cebu hailed as world’s best islands DOT celebrates back-to-back accolades for PH destinations

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA

AJPress

Boracay Island

the conduct and legitimacy of the 2022 national elections commissioned by Stratbase ADR Institute.

Holmes said the nationwide survey was  PAGE 2

THE Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) applauded the naming of the country's three island destinations among "The 25 Best Islands in the World" of the New York-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure (T+L).

Boracay Island — featuring its postcard perfect sunset — ranked 9th in the T+L World's Best Island list, followed by the Palawan at Inquirer.net file photo 11th with a photo of an idyllic

lagoon in El Nido, and Cebu at 16th with Taoist Temple, in Cebu City.

According to T+L, readers were asked to “weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.”

“The Philippines is truly  PAGE 4

Inquirer.net photo

Marcos to be consulted on ICC drug war probe

by MARLON

RAMOS, MELVIN GASCON Inquirer.net

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will have to be consulted regarding the request of the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the Philippines to comment on ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan’s move to resume the investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte’s violent war on drugs, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said on Monday, July 18.

“There are state sovereignty issues involved. We need to cover those points, first and foremost,” Guevarra told reporters via Viber. “[The president] has not had

the occasion to discuss the ICC case thoroughly with anyone.

But I intend to consult with him about it very soon,” he said.

Guevarra, the justice secretary during the Duterte administration, said the Office of the Solicitor General was already studying several legal options in dealing with the ICC probe.

The Philippine government, he said, may question the jurisdiction of the ICC and the “admissibility of the case” as Duterte and his subordinates had done previously.

The solicitor general said the government might also opt to  PAGE 2

2 JULY 20-22, 2022 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

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From the Front Page

Marcos invites Filipinos to listen to...

PAGE 1

government’s medium-term fiscal framework, which is aimed at cutting the budget deficit, promoting fiscal sustainability and enabling robust economic growth.

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno previously said the framework would be implemented in two stages over the entire term of the President.

Among the goals set under the strategy is for the economy to grow by 6.5 to 7.5 percent this year and by 6.5 to 8 percent from 2023 to 2028.

The government also aims to reduce poverty incidence to nine percent by the end of Marcos’ term.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration managed to bring poverty incidence down from 23.5 percent in 2015 to 16.7 percent before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country, according to Diokno.

He said between the first semester of 2018 and the first semester of 2021, poverty incidence rose to 23.7 percent.

Economic managers also seek to elevate the country to upper middle-income status, where per capita income for Filipinos is at $4,046 by the end of Marcos’ term.

The administration also wants to reduce the debt-to-gross domestic product ratio from 63.5 percent as of the first quarter of 2022 to 60 percent by 2025.

Marcos has also vowed to make agriculture his “highest priority,” saying a strong economy cannot be built without a robust agricultural sector.

The President, who temporarily heads the agriculture department, has directed the agency to increase food production and to craft a multi-year plan to construct the Philippines’ value chain to address a food crisis that he said may affect the Philippines in the next two quarters.

He cited the need to increase the production of rice, corn and livestock while ensuring that their prices remain affordable.

Clear roadmap Senators are anticipating the first SONA of Marcos, who they hope will present a clear roadmap on how his administration will address the daunting challenges

the country is facing.

Sen. JV Ejercito expressed hope that Marcos will detail his plans for the country’s economic recovery and pandemic response in his SONA on Monday.

“I hope to hear some specifics on the direction he wants to take for the country. His inauguration speech was inspiring, but his SONA needs to flesh out the details of his plan to address the challenges we face,” Ejercito said in a statement.

“He needs to come up with a plan that balances the need to protect our people from the current and future pandemic and the urgency of reviving our economy in the face of mounting debt, external pressures and inflation,” he added.

The senator said he expects Marcos to discuss a comprehensive economic plan that will go beyond proposals to raise existing taxes and levy new ones.

“There have been talks about raising taxes. This cannot be a stand-alone plan; rather, it should be part of a comprehensive economic blueprint that I hope will be discussed in the SONA,” Ejercito said.

He also emphasized the need to anchor the country’s pandemic response on the Universal Health Care law, which he principally sponsored during his first term at the Senate.

Ejercito recently filed an amendment to the measure, seeking to adjust current PhilHealth contribution schemes.

As principal author of the AntiAgricultural Smuggling Act and an advocate for local farmers, Ejercito called on Marcos to elaborate on his plan for food security amid the threat of an impending food crisis.

Sen. Nancy Binay said Marcos should also mention how he intends to cushion the effects of rising fuel prices and his economic roadmap for the next six years.

Sen. Robin Padilla said he is excited to listen to the SONA, especially now as a senator.

Padilla added that he used to attend Duterte’s SONA, but as a “third person.”

“I’m excited to what President Marcos will say. Because when we were campaigning, he always said he would continue the good

programs of Duterte,” Padilla told reporters in Filipino.

He added that he was keen on what Marcos will say about the war on drugs, Build Build Build and agriculture.

‘Proportionately represented’ Allies or partners of the administration party under the supermajority coalition will be “proportionately represented” when the 19th Congress convenes on July 25, presumptive speaker Martin Romualdez said on Monday.

“We will also go by seniority, merit, experience and, of course, the initiative to make the sacrifice and hard work needed for each of the positions,” Romualdez told reporters in a chance interview.

Romualdez, Marcos’ first cousin, is expected to be elected as the speaker on July 25, when the new Chief Executive delivers his first SONA. The reelected first district congressman of Leyte province said that while many members of the 19th Congress are qualified for leadership and committee posts, the House will be guided by “our time-honored traditions of having the respective parties properly represented.”

Romualdez served as majority leader in the 18th Congress (July 2019-June 2022).

Asked who would be his successor as majority leader, he replied: “We’ll let you know next week. We’ll try to get those who are willing to make the sacrifice of hard work and get a consensus to help us on (legislative) measures.”

Also on Monday, the House leader does not see any problem regarding the submission of the proposed national budget for 2023, which he promised to pass before the year ends, just like they as lawmakers always do.

“The most important is the 2023 national budget, which we will pass definitely within the third quarter for the President to sign before the year ends. The executive department can submit the proposed budget within 30 days of SONA delivery,” Romualdez said.

He also delivered an inspirational message to the third batch of neophyte congressmen who finished the executive course on legislation for PAGE 4

VOTERS’ SIGNUP. Thousands of new voters gather at the corner of Almar and Zabarte Road in Caloocan City to register on Monday, July 18. The voter registration for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections is from July 4 to July 23.

PNA photo by Oliver Marquez

Most Filipinos trust results...

PAGE 1 conducted from June 24 to 27 using face-to-face interviews based on a sample of 1,200 representative adults 18 years old and above.

The survey found that 82 percent of respondents had “big trust” in the outcome of the national and local elections.

Trust is most pronounced in Mindanao as 96 percent of the respondents believed in the result and least manifested in Luzon at 73 percent.

Some four percent of Filipino adults expressed distrust on the election results while 14 percent were undecided on the matter.

Among the developments that transpired in the period leading up to the survey period was the proclamation by Congress on May 25 of former senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Davao City Mayor Sara DuterteCarpio and their oath-taking last month as the two top officials of the land.

Satisfaction with the

automated voting system or counting of votes through the vote counting machines (VCMs) is expressed by 89 percent of Filipino adults.

Faster release of electoral results was the most often cited primary benefit of the automation of elections in the country as expressed by 72 percent of the respondents.

A huge majority of Filipino adults or 89 percent are in favor of using the automated voting system in future elections. g

Marcos to be consulted on ICC drug...

PAGE 1

“leave our lines of communication with the ICC open.”

He said any decision on the matter will have to be discussed with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Justice, international law experts, and the Office of the President.

PH withdrawal from ICC Duterte, himself a lawyer, had claimed that the ICC lost its jurisdiction over him when he announced in March 2018 the Philippines’ withdrawal as a state

party to the Rome Statute, the international treaty that created the tribunal.

But former ICC Judge Raul Pangalangan, the first Filipino jurist who served in the international tribunal, had maintained that the withdrawal will not protect Duterte from the ICC probe or for him to evade responsibility for the deaths of tens of thousands of alleged victims of the drug war.

Meanwhile, Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa reiterated on

Monday that he will not cooperate with the ongoing investigation by the ICC on the killings linked to the government’s war on drugs, insisting it did not have jurisdiction over the Philippines’ “domestic affairs.”

In an interview, Dela Rosa maintained that the country’s courts remain operational, and can handle the prosecution of those involved in the “drug war” killings, including former President Duterte and himself. g

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Fil-Am community converges in Cerritos for...

PAGE 1

Cultural dances like Tinikling and Bulaklakin performed by Club Magkaisa of Cerritos High School brought nostalgia to the throng.

Early arrivals to provide security and parking assistance to VIPs and entertainers and parade goers were the Alpha Phi Omega Alumni Associations of APOGLA and APO South Bay who served as volunteers.

They were the eyes and ears for suspicious characters who might disrupt the festive ambiance of this Los Angeles County’s largest Philippine-American Friendship held in this gateway region.

The 65 booth vendors of businesses and non-profit organizations who had to set up their wares and parade goers were excited to participate around the refreshing lake with sparkling fountain and murmuring mini gorge.

Among the novelties that LA County Supervisor of the 4th District Janice Hahn after her speech at the Philippine- enlivened the huge crowd American Friendship Day event on Saturday, July 9. She is joined by NaFFAA President Noel were the five mounted sheriffs S.V. Omega and overall event chair, Dan E. Nino. courtesy of the County Advisory Council (CAC) and a flyover helicopter under the jurisdiction of LA Sheriff Alex Villanueva.

And the surprise appearance of a dozen of Miss Philippines-USA beauty contestants.

The day’s program was opened with the singing of the United States and Philippine national anthems by child prodigy Ardyanna, followed by the invocation of Pastor Ren Sabio of Temecula. This was immediately followed by welcome remarks of NaFFAA Board Chair and President Noel S.V. Omega and the symbolic NaFFAA leaders receive a recognition from Rachelle Pastor Arizmendi, councilmember of banging of the gong three times Sierra Madre, California. by this author who also served as

on this city named Tree City USA, known for its well-planned landscape, an award-winning library and the Center for the Performing Arts Center, and for its rich ethnic diversity.

Musical, dance entertainment and cultural presentations had a wide range of coverage like pop, standard, patriotic, Broadway, Opera, ballads, R&B, rock, folk rock, disco, and danceable music from the 1980s to the 2020s.

overall event chair.

City of Cerritos Mayor Chuong Vo formally welcomed the huge crowd, followed by two elected Cerritos Fil-Am Councilmembers, Lynda Johnson and Frank Aurelio Yokoyama. Thereafter, Mayor Vo presented NaFFAA organizers with a scroll of proclamation and commendation. The Vietnamese American mayor even bought a resplendent Barong Tagalog that fit him well.

Among those elected Filipino American and mainstream officials who presented scrolls of proclamations and commendations and delivered inspiring messages include Artesia Mayor Melissa Ramoso, Lakewood Mayor Pro Tem Ariel Pe, Sierra Madre Councilmember Rachelle Arizmendi, former Carson Mayor and current Councilmember Jim Dear on behalf of Mayor Lula DavisHolmes and County Supervisor Janice Hahn.

The keynote speech was delivered by 4th District LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn, the lead sponsor of this historic milestone. She exhorted the large audience from all walks of life to be on guard.

She recalled a hate incident wherein Fil-Am resident Cesar Echano was physically assaulted at the park without provocation and was told, “you do not belong here." As a result, she organized the “Stop The Asian Hate” rally in 2021.

She emphasized, “The Filipino American residents made our county and country stronger.

And today with this friendship festival, we are celebrating you.

(L-R) Former Mayor of Cerritos Mark Pulido, Greg Inee De Jesus, Veekee Eugenio, Dan Nino, Deputy Consul General Ambrosio “Ambo” Enciso III and Cerritos Councilmember Frank Aurelio Yokoyama.

Photos courtesy of NaFFAA-Greater Los Angeles, Carlito Rafanan

Attendees gather to watch performances during the day-long Philippine-American Friendship Day event in Cerritos.

It is appropriate that we hold this ‘Friendship Day’ here in this same park, where everyone is welcome, everyone can feel safe and everyone can take part in their community.”

Inspiring and uplifting messages were also delivered

by Philippine Deputy Consul General Ambrosio Bryan F. Enciso, LA County Sheriff Alex Villanueva, Jessica Caloza, the Deputy Chief of Staff to California Attorney General Rob Bonta, California Treasurer Fiona Ma, and Bellflower Councilmember Victor Sanchez, representing Mayor Pro Tem Sonny Santa Ines. He also handed a scroll.

U.S. Rep. Michelle Steel, who covers California's 48th congressional district, also showed up to say hello to her constituents.

As a side event, an economic summit and immigration and music workshops were conducted inside the gym.

Among the entertainers NaFFAA members lead the the inaugural parade at LA County’s Largest Philippine American Friendship Day on July 9 around the lake path at Don Knabe Community Regional Park in Cerritos, included: Zumba Dancers of California.

courtesy of Nonie Belarmino, Dance Exhibition of the Iligan/ Lanao Del Norte Group, the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, Sara Mislang, Hollywood Dance Moms, Lyndon Apostol, Kangoo Dance Fitness, Emeben Baysic, Jay Auditor, Ancestral Dance Movement, Felson Palad, Synergy Rising Kids Stars, Ventriloquist Shane Seloria, Garth Garcia, Cerritos High School’s Club Magkaisa Folk Dancers, Filipino Cultural School Rondalla Ensemble, TFC Hour featuring Kiana Valenciano and Robin Nievera.

The finale was performed by Playback Jukebox led by Paco Arespacochaga, drummer of Filipino pop-rock band, Introvoys.

Philippine-American Friendship Day is an annual celebration on July 4 to mark the shared history between both nations after the Philippines gained its complete independence from the United States. (Contributed by Dan E. Nino)

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Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles changes Marcos invites Filipinos to listen to... name to Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California PAGE 2

ASIAN Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles (Advancing Justice-LA), the nation’s largest civil rights and legal services organization announced its official name change to Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL).

With offices in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, the organization is making this change to reflect its unified presence and service in both counties.

While AJSOCAL’s primary focus remains Los Angeles and Orange Counties, it will continue to provide help where possible for organizations and individuals from the region and beyond.

Asian Americans are the fastest growing immigrant population in the U.S. and makes up roughly 6% of the country’s total. California has the highest statewide population of approximately 15%. AJSOCAL remains an active part of the network of sister organizations that comprise the national affiliation named Asian Americans Advancing Justice.

“As part of the Advancing Justice affiliation, we

have always served both Orange and Los Angeles counties, so this change simply better represents us. Our help and advocacy for Asian Americans have not changed. We continue to strive for equity and justice,” said Connie Chung Joe, CEO of AJSOCAL. AJSOCAL operates free helplines for legal guidance in multiple Asian languages, including Tagalog at (855) 300-2552. For English, the helpline is (888) 349-9695.

Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL) serves more than 15,000 individuals and organizations every year. Through direct services, impact litigation and policy advocacy, AJSOCAL focuses on the most vulnerable members of Asian American communities while building a strong voice for civil rights and social justice. Based in downtown Los Angeles, AJSOCAL has offices in Orange County and a presence in Sacramento. It is part of a network of affiliated organizations in Atlanta, Chicago, San Francisco and Washington, DC. g

Metro Manila to remain under Alert Level 1...

PAGE 1

Lapu City, and Mandaue City and • Region VIII: Biliran, Eastern Samar, Southern Leyte, Ormoc City, and Tacloban City • Region IX: Zamboanga City • Region X: Camiguin, Bukidnon, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Cagayan de Oro City, and Iligan City; Region • XI: Davao City and Davao Oriental; Region • XII: South Cotabato and General Santos City • CARAGA: Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur and Butuan City • BARMM: Cotabato City Apart from these areas, the following component cities and municipalities shall likewise be placed under Alert Level 1 for the same period: • Cordillera Administrative Region: Sablan, Benguet • Region IV-A: Alabat, Quezon • Region IV-B: Magsaysay and Paluan, Occidental Mindoro; and Region V: San Fernando, Masbate • Region VI: Ilog, Negros Occidental • Region VII: Albuquerque, Bohol • Region VIII: Motiong, Samar • Region IX: Guipos and San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur • Region X: Kolambugan, Lanao Del Norte • Region XI: Santo Tomas, Davao del Norte and Santa Maria, Davao Occidental • CARAGA: Bacuag, Placer, and Tubod, Surigao del Norte and • Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao:

Bubong and Lumbatan, Lanao del Sur Meanwhile, DOH said that the following provinces, highly urbanized cities (HUCs), and independent component cities (ICCs) shall remain under Alert Level 2, “without prejudice to their respective component cities and municipalities, which may be under a different alert level classification.”

• Cordillera Administrative Region: Benguet, Ifugao • Region IV-A: Quezon Province • Region IV-B: Occidental Mindoro and Palawan • Region V: Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Masbate • Region VI: Antique and Negros Occidental • Region VII: Bohol, Cebu, and Negros Oriental • Region VIII: Leyte, Northern Samar and Western Samar • Region IX: City of Isabela, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay • Region X: Lanao del Norte • Region XI: Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro and Davao Occidental • Region XII: North Cotabato, Sarangani, and Sultan Kudarat; CARAGA: Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Norte • BARMM: Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi Alert level system under review The DOH then announced that under the new instructions

of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, and with the advice of health experts, the agency is now reviewing future directions for the COVID-19 alert level status.

DOH said Marcos has also requested the DOH for recommendations on the updated membership of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID).

But while waiting for the changes, the DOH said it will first streamline meetings and processes with clear directives to assist in safe reopening and will be utilizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) platform.

“Makakaasa po ang ating mga kababayan na mananatili ang gabay pangkalusugan ng kagawaran,” said DOH Officer-inCharge Dr. Maria Rosario SinghVergeire in a statement.

(Our kababayans can expect that the Department’s health advice will remain.)

“Amin pong inaaral kung paano natin maipaparating ng mas maigi pa sa taumbayan kung ano ang kasalukuyang kalagayan ng COVID-19 para sila ay makaiwas dito,” she added.

(We are studying how we can better inform the people about the current COVID-19 situation so they can avoid it.)

As of July 19, the country’s total caseload is now at 3,737,222 nationwide, with 20,511 active cases, 3,656,070 recoveries and 60,641 deaths. g

members of the 19th Congress at the Belmonte Hall inside the Batasang Pambansa complex in Quezon City.

1,365 guests Meanwhile, more than 1,300 individuals are invited to attend Marcos’ first SONA before the joint session of Congress at the Batasan complex in Quezon City.

House of Representatives Secretary General Mark Llandro

Mendoza said they have started sending out invitations to 1,365 guests over the weekend while the rest of the invitations will be delivered this week.

“So far, we are OK with the coordination with different agencies and with Malacañangy,” Mendoza told GMA 7’s “BalitangHali” on Monday.

Among the invitees are Vice President Sara Duterte, former presidents, former vice

presidents, former speakers, former Senate presidents, members of Marcos’ Cabinet and members of the diplomatic corps.

This will be the first face-to-face SONA of a Philippine president since the COVID-19 pandemic started.

Duterte’s last two SONAs in 2020 and 2021 were held in a hybrid or mixed live and virtual setup as a precautionary measure against the virus. g

Boost now or wait? Many wonder how...

PAGE 1

Boost again now with one of the original vaccines, or wait months for promised new formulations tailored to the latest, highly contagious omicron subvariants, BA.4 and BA.5?

The rapidly mutating virus has created a conundrum for the public and a communications challenge for health officials.

“What we’re seeing now is a little bit of an information void that is not helping people make the right decision,” said Dr. Carlos del Rio, a professor of infectious diseases at the Emory University School of Medicine.

Del Rio said the public isn’t hearing enough about the vaccines’ value in preventing severe disease, even if they don’t stop all infections. Each new covid variant also forces health officials to tweak their messaging, del Rio said, which can add to public mistrust.

About 70% of Americans age 50 and older who got a first booster shot — and nearly as many of those 65 and older — haven’t received their second covid booster dose, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The agency currently recommends two booster shots after a primary vaccine series for adults 50 and older and for younger people with compromised immune systems. Last week, multiple news outlets reported that the Biden administration was working on a plan to allow all adults to get second covid boosters.

Officials are worried about the surge of BA.4 and BA.5, which spread easily and can escape immune protection from vaccination or prior infection. A recent study published in Nature found BA.5 was four times as resistant to the currently available mRNA vaccines as earlier omicron subvariants.

Consistent messaging has been complicated by the different views of leading vaccine scientists.

Although physicians like del Rio and Dr. Peter Hotez of Baylor College of Medicine see the value in getting a second booster, Dr. Paul Offit, a member of the FDA’s vaccine advisory committee, is skeptical it’s needed by anyone but seniors and people who are immunocompromised.

“When experts have different views based on the same science, why are we surprised that getting the message right is confusing?” said Dr. Bruce Gellin, chief of global public health strategy at the Rockefeller Foundation and Offit’s colleague on the FDA panel.

Janet Perrin, 70, of Houston hasn’t gotten her second booster for scheduling and convenience reasons and said she’ll look for information about a varianttargeted dose from sources she trusts on social media. “I haven’t found a consistent guiding voice

from the CDC,” she said, and the agency’s statements sound like “a political word salad.”

On July 12, the Biden administration released its plan to manage the BA.5 subvariant, which it warned would have the greatest impact in the parts of the country with lower vaccine coverage. The strategy includes making it easier for people to access testing, vaccines and boosters, and covid antiviral treatments.

During the first White House covid briefing in nearly three weeks, the message from top federal health officials was clear: Don’t wait for an omicrontailored shot. “There are many people who are at high risk right now, and waiting until October, November for their boost — when in fact their risk is in the moment — is not a good plan,” said Dr. Rochelle Walensky, head of the CDC. With worries about the BA.5 subvariant growing, the FDA on June 30 recommended that drugmakers Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna get to work producing a new, bivalent vaccine that combines the current version with a formulation that targets the new strains.

The companies both say they can make available for the U.S. millions of doses of the reformulated shots in October.

Experts think that deadline could slip by a few months given the unexpected hitches that plague vaccine manufacturing.

“I think that we have all been asking that same question,” said Dr. Kathryn Edwards, scientific director of the Vanderbilt Vaccine Research Program. “What’s the benefit of getting another booster now when what will be coming out in the fall is a bivalent vaccine and you will be getting BA.4/5, which is currently circulating?

Although whether it will be circulating in the fall is another question.”

The FDA on July 13 authorized a fourth covid vaccine, made by Novavax, but only for people who haven’t been vaccinated yet. Many scientists thought the Novavax shot could be an effective booster for people previously vaccinated with mRNA shots from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna because its unique design could broaden the immune response to coronaviruses. Unfortunately, few studies have assessed mix-andmatch vaccination approaches, said Gellin, of the Rockefeller Foundation.

Edwards and her husband got covid in January. She received a second booster last month, but only because she thought it might be required for a Canadian business trip. Otherwise, she said, she felt a fourth shot was kind of a waste, though not particularly risky. She told her husband — a healthy septuagenarian — to wait

for the BA.4/5 version.

People at very high risk for covid complications might want to go ahead and get a fourth dose, Edwards said, with the hope that it will temporarily prevent severe disease “while you wait for BA.4/5.”

The omicron vaccines will contain components that target the original strain of the virus because the first vaccine formulations are known to prevent serious illness and death even in people infected with omicron.

Those components will also help keep the earlier strains of the virus in check, said Dr. David Brett-Major, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. That’s important, he said, because too much tailoring of vaccines to fight emerging variants could allow older strains of the coronavirus to resurface.

Brett-Major said messages about the value of the tailored shots will need to come from trusted, local sources — not just top federal health officials.

“Access happens locally,” he said. “If your local systems are not messaging and promoting and enabling access, it’s really problematic.”

Although some Americans are pondering when, or whether, to get their second boosters, many people tuned out the pandemic long ago, putting them at risk during the current wave, experts said.

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, said he doesn’t expect to see the public’s level of interest in the vaccine change much even as new boosters are released and eligibility expands.

Parts of the country with high vaccine coverage will remain relatively insulated from new variants that emerge, he said, while regions with low vaccine acceptance could be set for a “rude awakening.”

Even scientists are at a bit of a loss for how to effectively adapt to an ever-changing virus.

“Nothing is simple with covid, is it? It’s just whack-a-mole,” said Edwards. “This morning I read about a new variant in India.

Maybe it’ll be a nothingburger, but — who knows? — maybe something big, and then we’ll wonder, ‘Why did we change the vaccine strain to BA.4/5?’”

(Sam Whitehead and Arthur Allen/Kaiser Health News) KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

Boracay, Palawan and Cebu hailed...

PAGE 1 blessed with the unrivaled beauty of our natural resources coupled by the warmth and endless talent of the Filipinos manifested in this citation of Travel + Leisure that included our Cebu, Palawan, and Boracay in their prestigious list,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.

Boracay and Palawan also topped T+L's 5 Best Islands in Asia alongside Phuket, Thailand, Bali, Indonesia, and The Maldives. “Travel + Leisure readers fondly recalled preCOVID-era visits to the best islands in Asia. Now that the region is reopening, they're surely eager to return to these five ports of call, including the islands of the Maldives, as well as those found in Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.”, stated T + L. “We express our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all tourism stakeholders from the public and private sector, the national and local government units, the efforts of the previous administration included, and all the hardworking employees and officials of the Department across the country for forging forward amidst the challenges of the pandemic and contributing in their own ways so our country may earn the title as one of the most beautiful in the world. The natural beauty of a country can truly shine through when we are united in heralding our best qualities,” Frasco added.

One of 40 most beautiful

El Nido, Palawan

countries in the world The Philippines concurrently was named among “The 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World” by lifestyle travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler (CNT).

The country is accompanied in the list by other countries such as Brazil, France, Italy, Japan, and United States of America, among others.

Manila among top cities in the world Meanwhile, TimeOut.com also ranked Manila among the top cities in the world. The ranking comes as a result of a survey among city-dwellers worldwide. The choice is a result of several criteria that

Inquirer.net file photo

include aspects like walkability, good public transport, safety, and sustainability other than a thriving nightlife, amazing food and drink, and art and culture. It should be noted, nonetheless, that Manila is usually in reference to Metro Manila or the Philippines’ National Capital Region.

“May this global recognition of the beauty of our natural resources inspire our efforts to raise the Philippines’ standing in the tourism industry by introducing tourism infrastructure development and improvements that would enhance connectivity and convenience in reaching our destinations,” enthused Secretary Frasco. g

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USAID leads dialogue on improving women’s digital inclusion in PH MANILA – Speakers and reactors from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Philippine Commission on Women, Global Systems of Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), and the public and private sectors recently engaged more than 300 participants at an online dialogue on the prevailing gender mobile usage gap worldwide and in the Philippines.

In commemoration of National Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Month, the United States government, through the USAID led the dialogue to promote increased access to digital technology in the Philippines, particularly among women.

More than 300 participants attended the dialogue on June 27 to discuss issues related to digital inclusion, such as the gender mobile internet adoption and usage gap and key ICT policy challenges and opportunities to increase women’s mobile internet use.

“We are at the cusp of a rapid digital transformation where digital devices and the internet have become an integral part

of our day-to-day lives,” USAID Philippines Regional Office of Acquisition and Assistance Director Jennifer Crow said in a statement issued on Tuesday.

“USAID remains committed to supporting the Philippine government in building a future where digital technology promotes inclusive growth, fosters resilient and democratic societies, and empowers all, including the most vulnerable,” she added.

According to the Global Systems of Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), 52 million Filipinos living in areas already covered by mobile broadband do not use mobile internet. A significant number of them are women who face barriers such as handset and data cost, limited access to networks and electricity, and safety and security concerns that include online harassment and fraud.

“We continue to work together with various partners to ensure that internet connectivity is widely available to every Filipino. Through our efforts, we can surely accelerate progress in advancing ICT and deliver on the promise of digital inclusion,” DICT Undersecretary Maria Victoria Castro said.

Speakers shared policy

MANILA — Nearly 40 U.S.-based agribusinesses, farm organizations, and representatives from state departments of agriculture are on a trade mission to ink three deals for agricultural opportunities in the Philippines.

Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Administrator Daniel Whitley is leading the group, aided by the FAS office based in Manila.

“I’m confident the next few days will offer an abundance of opportunities for both the United States and the Philippines,” Whitley said in a statement on Monday, July 18.

They will be meeting with

local companies in hopes of inking deals that allow American food and farm products to be imported into the Philippines.

In the last five years, the Philippines has been listed as the eighth-largest export market for U.S. agricultural products at $3.1 billion.

"We have a diverse group of U.S. agribusinesses and industry officials joining us in Manilla who can provide reliable, high-quality, and sustainably-produced U.S. food and farm products to local buyers," Whitney said.

A U.S. Department of Agriculture-backed program to help combat African

examples and innovations from other countries, such as lowering consumer taxes and import duties on handsets, offering flexible payment terms for underserved customer segments, providing targeted internet service and smartphone subsidies for women entrepreneurs and female-headed households, and increasing digital literacy.

The dialogue also highlighted existing policies and programs that support digital inclusion in the Philippines which include the Updated Philippine Development Plan, the Updated Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Plan, the National Broadband Plan, the Free Wi-Fi for All Program, and the Tech4ED Project.

Through its Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON) project, USAID helps improve the Philippines’ ICT and logistics infrastructure; strengthen the regulatory, business, and innovation environment; and bolster cybersecurity.

To help bridge the digital divide, USAID also assists the government in automation and digitization efforts and supports community networks to expand low-cost internet access for underserved communities.

(PNA)

US agricultural trade mission in PH to ink three deals swine fever (ASF) will also be launched in the coming days. Some cities such as Zamboanga del Sur’s Zamboanga City are under the red zone classification of the Philippine Department of Agriculture after ASF was detected in 15 barangays.

Meanwhile, the state departments of agriculture will also formalize trade opportunities with Batangas through a memorandum of understanding.

The U.S. Grains Council and Mariano Marcos State University will also forge ties to focus on supporting biofuel solutions and climate smart practices. (Kaycee Valmonte/ Philstar.com)

9 1 D I COV P E E K S R E T S BOO !

G N O R T S U YO

Get vaccinated against COVID-19 to keep your immunity strong against severe illness & death.

MyTurn.ca.gov

CABLE REPLACEMENT. Meralco Industrial Engineering Services Corporation linemen install new electric cables along Batasan-San Mateo Road in Quezon City on Tuesday, July 19. The Energy Regulatory Commission has directed Meralco to refund distribution-related charges amounting to P21.8 billion or 87 centavos per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for residential customers.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

Stubbornly high Philippine inflation dilutes benefits of a weak peso

by RAMON

ROYANDOYAN Philstar.com

MANILA — As the Philippine peso hovers within 17-year lows, money sent home by Filipinos abroad are getting a boost.

Ideally, the gains should translate to stronger purchasing power for the families of these expats, but not for Melissa Tresvalles, a 31-year-old overseas Filipino worker in Saudi Arabia.

“Despite the bigger value of my remittances, prices of consumer items are also rising back home,” she said in an interview. “That’s why my family does not feel the benefits of the weak peso.”

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has traditionally emphasized the benefits of — and even its preference for — a weak peso.

Last week, the local unit touched the all-time low of P56.45 against the greenback as an aggressive US Federal Reserve triggers capital outflows from emerging markets and prop up demand for dollars.

The Philippines’ rising import bill amid rallying world oil prices is also adding pressure on the country’s currency.

Apart from boosting remittances and helping stimulate consumption, a depreciating currency can also help exporters gain more market share by

making the prices of their products cheaper compared to other goods that are priced at stronger currencies. At the same time, a weak currency can boost the central bank’s earnings as the BSP may opt to sell dollars from its holdings to arrest a deeper currency slump.

But some of those benefits are hardly manifesting these days.

“I have always welcomed a depreciating peso as the benefits reach not only overseas Filipinos and their families but also local manufacturers that compete with cheap imports, exporters, BPOs etc…,” Jun Neri, lead economist at Bank of the Philippine islands, said.

“However, given the extraordinary rise of inflation everywhere in the world, the gains from the depreciation are easily diluted by rising onshore prices of food, transport and even key services,” he added.

Government data shows inflation, as measured by the consumer price index, heated up 6.1% year-on-year in June, the hottest in over three years. State statisticians also reported that the value of P1 back in 2018 is now equivalent to P0.87 in June this year, and other data tells us that stubbornly high prices are already weighing on consumer sentiment.

A quarterly central bank survey released last month found that consumer spending outlook for the third quarter fell to 38.3%, from 40.4% recorded in the first quarter, as households expect prices to go even higher in the coming months. And OFWs, who typically spend over 90% of their remittances on food and other household needs based on BSP data, are not spared from the onslaught of inflation.

When Glyza Biscocho, an airport supervisor for a major airline based in Singapore, flew home last weekend, she was surprised to find consumer prices were zooming.

“My family thinks it’s a good thing because they end up getting more with the same amount when converted to peso. But they don’t see how badly it reflects on the Philippine economy, consumer goods are so expensive,” Biscocho, 28, said in an interview.

Bad to worse Beyond consumption, inflows from remittances, one of the Philippines’ major sources of dollars, are not seeing a significant increase because a weak peso eases the pressure on OFWs to send home a bigger amount of dollars to cover the peso expenses of their families here. Latest  PAGE 7

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OPINION

FEATURES

Child health red alert

The Philippines merited special mention in a new report released last week by the World Health Organization and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund. Unfortunately, it was not a flattering commentary by the WHO and Unicef on the state of Philippine public health.

Unicef’s executive director warned of a global “red alert for child health” amid “the largest sustained drop in childhood immunization in a generation,” with the worst situations recorded in five countries: Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Nigeria and the Philippines.

WHO and Unicef officials attributed the alarming drop to the disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic in the delivery of public health services alongside misinformation about vaccines.

In the Philippines, hysteria over the antidengue vaccine Dengvaxia led to a slide in the general childhood immunization program even before the arrival of COVID. The Dengvaxia scare was blamed for the return of polio in 2019, about 19 years after the Philippines was declared free of the crippling disease. There was also a resurgence of measles, with 47,871 cases and 632 deaths recorded nationwide in 2019.

Pandemic lockdowns beginning in 2020 further derailed the national immunization program. Unicef and the WHO, in their report last week, said about 25 million children worldwide failed to get inoculated in 2021 against common

vaccine-preventable diseases led by diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis.

The “historic backsliding” in childhood immunization is happening at the same time that severe malnutrition is on the rise, weakening the immune systems of children, Unicef and the WHO warned.

“The convergence of a hunger crisis with a growing immunization gap threatens to create the conditions for a child survival crisis,” the UN said. Health experts lament that this is eroding the enormous progress achieved in global child vaccination in the two decades before the COVID pandemic struck.

Mobility restrictions are now being eased, and governments must move aggressively to make up for the years lost in the childhood vaccination program. In the Philippines, this is critical especially with face-to-face classes resuming this year. School children must be in the best of health for optimum learning. It is not yet too late to turn back the tide and save children from lifelong debilitation and even death. (Philstar. com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Filipinos are fully behind the PCA arbitral ruling

Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ LAST Tuesday, July 19, I was asked to deliver the keynote address at an international forum titled, “Redefining Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific in an Age of Uncertainty,” organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute to commemorate the anniversary of the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration Tribunal Ruling.

Conducted via hybrid format, the forum gathered local and regional security experts who discussed the complex issues surrounding the Indo-Pacific and how the Philippines can harness its maritime potential and position itself as a key player in the maritime domain.

The powerhouse roster of panelists included director of the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) Lisa Curtis; BowerGroupAsia director of research and Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) senior associate Murray Hiebert; Ambassador Jana Sediva of the Czech

Republic; the British Embassy in the Philippines’ deputy head of mission Alistair White; National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies associate professor Yusuke Takagi; Australia National University professor of International Security and Intelligence Studies John Blaxland; De La Salle University professor and Stratbase ADRI program convenor Dr. Renato de Castro; and retired Philippine Navy Rear Admiral Rommel Jude Ong, currently the executive director of the Security Reform Initiative and Professor of Praxis at the Ateneo School of Government.

The three-and-a-half-hour conference examined the evolving security architecture in the Indo-Pacific and the need for the Philippines to engage in strategic alliances with like-minded states to promote peace and stability in the region through a rules-based international order.

No one will argue that the 2016 PCA arbitral ruling continues to be the single most important document during these volatile times. And as I have always said, it was not only

a victory for the Philippines but for the international community as well for the primary reason that the decision is underpinned by the rule of law.

As noted by ADRI president Professor Dindo Manhit, the 2016 arbitral ruling has “defined what is ours as it legitimized and validated our claims in the disputed waters. Under a rulesbased international system, the Permanent Court of Arbitration has legally transformed our maritime claims into territorial rights.”

No less than President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself has recognized this, saying, “We have a very important ruling in our favor. We will use it to continue to assert our territorial rights. It’s not a claim, it is already our territorial right,” asserting that “we will not allow a single square millimeter” of our maritime coastal rights to be trampled upon.

It was interesting to learn that in a recent Pulse Asia survey commissioned by Stratbase, 89 percent of Filipinos believe that the President should assert our rights in the West Philippine Sea, and 90 percent agree that the new administration under

President Marcos must invest in the capability of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard to protect the country’s territory and marine resources within its exclusive economic zone. Moreover, 84 percent also agree that the new government should form alliances with other countries to defend Philippine territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea. In his presentation, retired Navy Rear Admiral Rommel Jude Ong asserted that “our defense posture needs a serious reset” to mitigate China’s maritime posture and restore a rules-based order within our exclusive economic zone. A reset would also enable us to “contribute to regional stability under the framework of a free and open Indo-Pacific as well as the ASEAN Outlook in the IndoPacific” (AOIP).”

As I explained in my keynote remarks, we need to continue with AFP modernization efforts to build a more reliable and credible Philippine armed forces in order to strengthen our territorial or external defense capabilities.

One positive development that has happened is the acquisition

of the abandoned Hanjin shipyard in Subic by US-based equity firm Cerberus Capital Management. The shipyard, now known as Agila Subic, will help strengthen and transform the Philippine Navy – which is an anchor tenant occupying 250 acres of the facility – into a multi-capable naval force with the activation of the Naval Operations Base that will play a major role in our military modernization efforts.

I agree with the assessment of RADM Ong that for modernization to be sustainable, we must bring the local defense industry into the picture, as “some of the items we are procuring can actually be done by a local company,” he said. At the same time, there is a need to review the legal structure as current laws tend to be biased against local industries instead of supporting them, he added.

I for one know that we have a pioneering Filipino company that produces worldclass firearms, ammunition and other defense products – Armscor – which has always been supportive of the SelfReliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program that both

former defense secretary Del Lorenzana and Department of National Defense OIC General Jose Faustino Jr. have been wanting to revive for the Philippines to attain defense self-sufficiency.

And while I believe that diplomacy is still the best way to find a peaceful resolution to the contentious issues surrounding the Indo-Pacific, it is equally important for us to be able to defend ourselves if a situation such as an intrusion in our exclusive economic zone occurs.

Filipinos are known for having a deep threshold for patience and are prepared to sacrifice for the sake of peace. In Tagalog, “mahaba ang pasensiya ng Filipino.”

But make no mistake about it – when push comes to shove, we Filipinos will stand up and fight for what is rightfully ours.

(Philstar.com) *** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.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.

Resilience and tourism

Zilch

MA. LOURDES TIQUIA THE economic drivers, pre-pandemic, were OFW remittances and the BPO industry. We remained buoyant during the crucial pandemic years, again because of OFW remittances which registered a record high through banking channels of $31.4 billion in 2021. Cash remittances rose by 5.1 percent from $29.9 billion in 2020, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. If we add personal transfers in cash and the value of non-cash items brought, or sent, by Filipinos abroad, the overall amount of total personal remittances reached $34.9 billion, a record high and up by 5.1 percent from the $33.2 billion in 2020.

Personal remittances from OFWs accounted for 9.8 percent of the country's 2021 GDP. The increase happened in spite of almost a million OFWs who were repatriated (all for free) due to the pandemic. The BPO industry, on the other hand, contributes over 11 percent to the GDP. It is the

single largest sector and employs over 1.2 million people across 1,000 outsourcing companies.

This sector contributes $30 billion to the economy each year.

It is estimated that the Philippines holds 10 to 15 percent of the global BPO market and could potentially grow between 8 to 10 percent every year with the changing work set-up because of the pandemic. This has led to the growth of the "gig economy," opening up to more workers doing WFH. The country's tourism industry can be the main driver of our reboot only if we are to look at it in terms of sustainability, balancing carrying capacity viz income and resiliency. The Philippine travel and tourism sector made a significant jump in 2021 when it registered a $41-billion contribution to our economy based on the World Travel and Tourism Council's (WTTC) latest Economic Impact Report, or EIR. This sector has been contributing an average of 22.5 percent of the total economy, or roughly $29.6 billion. The lockdowns led to the drop in income by almost 81 percent, thus in 2020, the country only earned P17.8 billion. As

restrictions were gradually eased in 2021, the figure rose to $41 billion, representing 10.4 percent share in our total economy.

And this is where tourism can be linked with employment because of its multiplier effect in both national and local, leading to a recovery of 1.3 million more jobs, which can even reach 7.8 million jobs, according to WTTC. If the trend is sustained, tourism's contribution to GDP could be worth in excess of $155 billion in 2032, accounting for 21.5 percent of all jobs in the Philippines. But we cannot just be part of the herd. The country has to lead in terms of number of visitors because we have 7,641 reasons to be so.

Of the 7,641 islands, only 2,000 are inhabited. More than 5,000 islands of the archipelago are yet to be given names. The 50 largest islands have a combined area of 300,000 square kilometers and a combined population of 108.9 million, meaning these 50 largest islands contain 99 percent of our population. The passage of the long-delayed Land Use bill is urgently needed so we can define the limits of land for ecotourism.

Imagine if each of the 81

provinces has a designated area, the best area for ecotourism.

In 2020, because of the pandemic, the Philippines had only 1,482,535 visitor arrivals while Thailand had 6,702,396.

Malaysia had 4,332,722 while Indonesia had 4,052,923 and Vietnam 3,686,779.

In 2019, Philippines had 8,260,913 visitors while Thailand had 38,178,194; Malaysia at 26,100,874; Vietnam at 18,008,591 and Indonesia at 16,106,954. Why are we not a chosen destination among Asean countries?

The Philippines has the 7th highest number of islands in the world after Sweden, Finland, Norway, Canada, Indonesia and Australia. Luzon and Mindanao are contiguous, but Visayas is composed of several separate islands and islets.

Peace and order is vital as well as transportation to connect the various islands by air, water and land. There are 30 island provinces that can be destination magnets.

Imagine having a tourism ranking like the Michelin star which can signal our country is ready, not just the luxurious

destinations but ecotourism that brings to the fore the culture of each province. And we should learn from Siargao, a global destination because of surfing.

Siargao taught us to pursue sustainable (carrying capacity), inclusive and resilient tourism.

Boracay showed us why carrying capacity needs to be built in the process of development as well as tourism. Boracay gave us a second chance of stewardship and that is why the roadblocks need to be attended to. Farmto-table is sustainable tourism, but it is not sexy to those lens that see only the upper-end destinations.

Tourism is not just marketing, publicity and all that glamor. It is solving the roadblocks that matter. These roadblocks have been identified quite often: "1) development and management of tourism destinations is seen in piecemeal rather than holistic approach; 2) infrastructure remain inadequate to support tourism development and sustainability; 3) tourist destinations are affected and need to recover from different disasters and pandemic; and 4) responsibility to manage growth

and promote sustainable tourism between national and local government is unclear."

Imagine developing the biodiversity quad of a destination in Oslob, Dumaguete, Siquijor and Bohol? Or the DuSiBo Triangle? In between those islands are rich biodiversity hubs, which have to be protected and nurtured. Carrying capacity has to be the single most important index. We close once we breach the capacity; hence, other destinations can be considered.

Imagine having a calendar of destinations that take into planning the factor of resiliency.

Imagine if each province can do that and we have 81 destinations calendared according to the activities unique in each area.

But what unites all these? Culture (food and clothing) and heritage (spiritual). Tourism is the biggest industry in the world, and we are sitting on a heap of gold by not tapping our potentials.

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

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7

PH, China negotiate to pursue infra deals

by Bernadette

THE Chinese embassy in the Philippines said on Sunday, July 17 Beijing and Manila have made "positive progress" in their discussion to proceed with the railway projects in Bicol, Clark and Mindanao.

"Our two sides have been negotiating technical issues and made positive progress to move the projects forward," the embassy said in a statement.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. wants to renegotiate the country's withdrawn loan deals for the Bicol, Subic-Clark and Mindanao railway projects.

The embassy said China "is open for technical discussions over our G-to-G (government to government) projects, and is ready to carry our cooperation forward, in close communication with the Philippine new administration."

"China has comprehensive strength and is well-known for its quality and speed. China will tap its own advantage and support the Philippines to improve its infrastructure," the embassy said.

The embassy noted that in the past six years, China and the Philippines have "deepened the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative."

A total of 17 projects have been completed, and more than 20 projects are under implementation or in progress, the embassy said.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the implementation of some projects, hindering the site availability, causing delays of procurement, affecting goods mobility, it said.

"Despite those difficulties and challenges, our two sides have worked tirelessly to push the

e. tamayo

and mayvelin ManilaTimes.net

U. CaraBallo

projects forward and yielded rich outcomes, spanning from anti-pandemic response, disaster relief to infrastructure, agriculture and other fields," the embassy said.

The phone conversation between President Xi Jinping and President Marcos and the recent high-level visits "have ushered in a new era of China-Philippine friendship," the embassy said.

It assured that China's policy toward the Philippines "has always been and will continue to be "consistent and stable as ever."

However, two finance experts said China might raise the stakes if the Philippine government decides to renegotiate the Chinese-funded railway projects.

In a message shared by former Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd to reporters over the weekend, Finance Undersecretary Mark Dennis Joven said that because "US [dollar] benchmark interest rates have increased to around 3 percent, Cexim (Export-Import Bank of China) will push to recover this funding rate at the very least."

While Cexim has not revealed the financing cost it plans to offer, it has declared it wants to at least recover a minimal funding cost on the railway project loans, Joven noted.

Cesar Chavez, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) undersecretary for rails, announced the withdrawal of the loan deal and cited Dominguez's statement that he "canceled the application instead of keeping it in suspended animation."

When Cexim failed to approve the loan before the May 21, 2022 validity date, the application was

automatically withdrawn, Chavez said.

The DoTr advised the Department of Finance to begin policy discussions on the course to take for the three projects, he said.

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the Marcos administration could still continue the projects "if found worthwhile" and "if funding is still available."

Asked if it is still a good idea to borrow from Cexim now that interest rates around the world have gone up, Dominguez responded, "The prudent path [for the Philippines] would be to ascertain that the cost of the debt be less than economic returns of the project financed."

"Every effort on the Philippines' part was made to finance these projects based on favorable terms and conditionalities broadly comparable with loans from other sources," he added.

Sen. Mary Grace Poe on Sunday asked the government to ensure that any plans to renegotiate infrastructure deals with China will be advantageous to the Filipino people.

"The President's directive presents an auspicious opportunity to go back to the drawing board and craft deals that are fair and will produce tangible benefits to the Filipino people," Poe said.

She said renegotiation" should iron out issues that saddled the previous agreements, including interest rates and payment terms."

"The need to boost our infrastructure should not compromise the best interest of our country," Poe said in a statement. g

Stubbornly high Philippine inflation dilutes...

PAGE 5

data from the BSP showed cash remittances only grew 1.8% yearon-year in May. While exports are growing, the Philippines is still grappling with a record trade imbalance as soaring oil prices push up import costs. The BSP’s foreign reserves, meanwhile, are down as the government settles its COVID-19 debts.

As the crashing currency does more harm than good in the economy by fueling inflation,

the BSP last week hiked its key rate by a massive 75 basis points (bps) at an off-cycle meeting. The forceful action helped prevent the peso from posting a new record-low, but Nicholas Mapa, senior economist at ING Bank in Manila, said the rate hike’s cooling effect on the economy could make things harder for many Filipinos.

“With inflation on the rise, unfortunately Filipinos May face conditions that may slow consumption. On top of this, rate

hikes will now make borrowing more expensive, one more reason that should weigh on overall economic conditions,” Mapa said.

Sonny Africa, executive director of non-profit think tank IBON Foundation, agreed with Mapa.

“Inflation will get worse as the peso devaluation and oil prices still keep working their way through the economy in the months to come. Joblessness will worsen as inflation rises, as spending weakens, and as the economy slows,” he said. g

SIGH OF RELIEF. A gasoline station attendant fills up a car’s fuel tank along Visayas Avenue, Quezon City on Tuesday, July 19. For the third straight week, oil firms slashed pump prices -- Pper liter for gasoline, P2 per liter for diesel and P0.70 for kerosene, reflecting movements in the international market.

PNA Photo by Ben Briones

Pinoys reduce spending, increase savings – study by mayvelin

U. CaraBallo ManilaTimes.net

IN light of the anticipated slowdown of the economy, Filipinos have reduced their consumption and boosted their emergency savings, a research released on Tuesday by a global information and insights company, TransUnion, showed.

After a strong start to the year, the firm said respondents to its latest "Consumer Pulse Study" expect the Philippine economy to slow down and stop growing quarter on quarter.

"This is highly attributed to the election season affecting spending and investment of both the government and private sectors. Additionally, the local inflation rate increased to 5.4 percent in May due to the continuous global oil price hikes," it said.

Majority or 56 percent of the 1,005 respondents surveyed by TransUnion between May 26 and June 7 this year indicated they had saved more money for emergencies.

In addition, 43 percent of the respondents said they reduced their discretionary expenditure, such as going out to eat, while only 22 percent said they raised it.

Among generations, the

company said, Gen X (those born from 1965-1979) and Baby Boomers (born 19441964) reported making the most cuts, at 49 and 47 percent, respectively.

Furthermore, it added, "the majority of Filipino consumers were looking to maintain this trend; 61 percent expected large purchase spending to decrease or stay the same."

The category with the highest reported spending rise, however, was bills and loans, where 48 percent of respondents see spending more over the same time period.

On the respondents' ability to pay bills, TransUnion said 46 percent said they could not pay at least one of their existing loans or payments in full.

Nearly half or 46 percent of the respondents plan to utilize money from savings to continue paying bills and loans for those who said they would be unable to pay at least one bill or debt.

Among all generations, Gen Z respondents reported favoring this strategy the most, with 49 percent doing so.

"Most Filipinos (96 percent) believe in the importance of having access to credit and lending products to achieve financial goals," the firm said.

Forty-three percent of respondents overall say they have adequate access to credit and loan options.

According to the study, Baby Boomers held the majority with 55 percent of the vote, followed

by Millennials (born 19801994) and Gen Z with 44 and 41 percent, respectively.

Over half or 55 percent of all respondents, TransUnion said, intended to seek new credit or refinance existing credit during the next 12 months.

In a statement, Pia Arellano, president and chief executive officer of TransUnion Philippines, said while credit can stimulate economic growth, many consumers feel excluded or are denied credit because lenders are unable to assess their credit risk with sufficient accuracy.

The study found that 54 percent of customers thought their credit scores would rise if companies used data not present in a typical credit report, she added.

In order to give more Filipinos access to credit during these difficult times, Arellano pointed out, "this use of alternative data in credit scoring and decisions can significantly increase levels of financial inclusion across the country." g

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Pimentel, Estrada hoping Bongbong Marcos tackles economic recovery, jobs on SONA

by Daniza

FernanDez Inquirer.net

BACK RIDER. An Angkas motorcycle rider with a back rider traversing a busy Quezon Avenue in Quezon City on Monday, July 18. The Angkas is one of the alternative transportation services available to the riding public.

PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr.

Immediate House probe sought on blocking of red-tagged websites

by Xave

GreGorio Philstar.com

MANILA — Lawmakers from the progressive Makabayan bloc are calling on the House of Representatives to immediately launch an investigation into the National Telecommunications Commission’s order to block more than 20 websites identified by former National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon to be linked to the armed communist rebellion.

Led by Rep. France Castro (ACT Teachers party-list), the threemember group filed Monday House Resolution No. 49 calling on the human rights and public information panels to immediately conduct a probe on the blocking of the red-tagged websites, which include independent news outlets Bulatlat and Pinoy Weekly.

Castro, along with Reps. Arlene Brosas (Gabriela party-list) and Raoul Danniel Manuel (Kabataan party-list), stressed that neither Esperon nor the NTC provided any evidence to back up the claim that these websites are affiliated with the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New People’s Army or the National Democratic Front.

They added that the websites which were blocked were not given notice nor were heard in a trial or any other proceeding by the NTC and the National Security Council.

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“What the NTC and NSC did is blatant red-tagging — linking these organizations to the communist movement. This is also disinformation, given that Esperon and the agencies are maliciously misrepresenting progressives, the media, even the religious, are part of supporting and related to the armed struggle,” the lawmakers said.

‘No legal basis’ The Makabayan bloc also said that the blocking of websites “has no legal basis and therefore illegal,” noting that nothing in the charter and enabling laws of the NTC allows it or any other agency to block access to websites, especially without a court order.

They added that Republic Act No. 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and Republic Act No. 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 also do not give the Anti-Terrorism Council or the NTC powers to block websites.

“Since it has no basis in law and in fact, the memorandum also blatantly operates as an unconstitutional permissible restriction on the freedom of expression and speech, which the organizations and the individuals comprising them undoubtedly have,” the Makabayan bloc said.

They continued, “It also creates a chilling effect against critical opinion and people’s participation,

both of which are indispensable for a working democracy.”

The lawmakers said the blocking of the websites happened in the context of incessant redtagging of independent media and previous cyberattacks against them, including distributed denial of service attacks — which bring down a website by flooding it with traffic — some of which were traced back to the Department of Science and Technology and the Philippine Army.

They also recalled that it was also Esperon and the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict who initiated the closing of 55 schools for Lumad children by linking them to the CPP-NPA-NDF. “Such acts should not be committed again as long as we remain in a democracy. Purveyors of disinformation, malicious redtaggers and attackers of free press and speech using disinformation and red-tagging should never be countenanced, especially if they are holders of power,” the lawmakers said.

Bulatlat had requested a Quezon City court to temporarily stop the NTC’s blocking of the websites identified by Esperon, but the court denied this plea as it found the news organization’s website was still accessible even if Philstar.com was unable to access it on mobile and laptop using PLDT Wifi. g

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MANILA — Senators Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Jinggoy Estrada are hoping that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. would discuss his plans on economic recovery and job generation, among other issues, during the chief executive’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA).

Pimentel told INQUIRER.net that he is looking forward to Marcos discussing the “A, E, I, O, U” of some of the country’s priority concerns.

“I hope to hear plans for A — agriculture which means food; E — fair economy, education improvement, affordable energy; I — inflation; O — obra meaning jobs and work for our desperate people; U — utang (debt), be conscious of our massive P12,000,000,000,000 debt,” he said in a message.

Pimentel likewise wants to know the country’s true state, raising questions on shortage of cash, payment of the debt, and the recommended budget for

2023, among others.

Estrada’s expectations for Marcos’ first Sona were similar to Pimentel’s, specifically on economic recovery and job generation.

Aside from those, Estrada is eager to listen to the President’s plan for the country postCOVID. “I expect PBBM’s very first Sona to contain his priority measures on how to realize his campaign promise of ‘Bangon Bayan Muli,’ which can guide us as legislators as to what measures to prioritize and consider with urgency,” he said in an interview in the Senate.

“I look forward to hearing our President’s vision of the future, his plans for the country post-COVID-19, and how to fuel the full recovery of the national economy after the onslaught of the pandemic.

I am hopeful that focus can also be given to pressing labor concerns, specifically on job generation and provision of assistance to our workforce, especially to the unemployed,” he added.

Estrada is likewise “interested in hearing how the President intends to heal the country and inspire unity among Filipinos after a heated election campaign.”

Human rights, criminal justice reform Meanwhile, detained former Senator Leila de Lima expects Marcos to tackle human rights and criminal justice reform.

“Huwag sanang kalimutan sa SONA ang usapin ng human rights and criminal justice reform, including prison reform,” she said on social media site Twitter.

(I’m hoping that issues of human rights and criminal justice reform, including prison reform, will not be forgotten during the SONA.) “The sorry state of most of our jails and correctional facilities calls out for urgent attention and action,” she went on.

Some incumbent senators have also said they wanted to hear the plan on economic recovery and pandemic response, among other concerns. g

PH Navy conducts ‘sovereignty patrol’in Kalayaan Island Group

by Frances

ManGosinG Inquirer.net

AFTER the US Navy’s back-to-back “freedom of navigation operation” in the South China Sea to challenge China’s “excessive maritime claims,” the military’s Western Command (Wescom) in Palawan also sent one of its biggest ships to the Spratly Islands to assert its rights over the area.

The BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17), one of three handme-down vessels from the US Coast Guard, conducted a “sovereignty patrol” on Sunday at the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea. Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos, Wescom chief, who joined the patrol, said it was always good to visit troops assigned to the area at every opportunity.

“I am looking forward to seeing everyone’s morale in tiptop shape,” he added.

The BRP Andres Bonifacio made a stop at Rizal (Commodore) Reef, one of the Philippines’ nine small military

detachments in the KIG, located about 110 nautical miles west of Balabac, Palawan.

It also visited Littoral Monitoring Station Melville and Naval Station Narciso del Rosario in Balabac.

Return to service The 115-meter BRP Andres Bonifacio returned to service early this month after undergoing two months of repair and maintenance. With a cruising range of around 22,500 kilometers and a speed of up to 28 knots, it is armed with 76-mm automatic cannons, light cannons and .50-caliber machine guns.

Sunday’s patrol came after the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG-65) “asserted navigational rights and freedoms” three days apart last week in the Paracels and Spratlys, both disputed archipelagos in the South China Sea. The Chinese think-tank South China Sea Probing Initiative said that two US maritime patrol

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aircraft Boeing P-8A Poseidon operated from Clark Air Base in Pampanga to provide ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) support to USS Benfold’s operation in the Spratlys.

China has been claiming almost the entire South China Sea, rejecting a 2016 arbitration court ruling that invalidated its sweeping claims.

The Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims.

A China Coast Guard vessel last month warned Filipino troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre which serves as the Philippines’ military outpost in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, of “consequences” if they continue “making trouble,” based on suspicions they are conducting repairs.

The US Navy’s 7th Fleet, meanwhile, announced that a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), also entered the South China Sea on July 13. g

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Filipino American breakout actor Brandon Perea makes feature fi fillm debut in ‘Nope’ T

by Klarize

Medenilla / AJPress

HE most anticipated film of the summer is, undoubtedly, “Nope,” the latest offering from Academy Award-winning writer and director Jordan

And just like his previous feature endeavors, “Nope” promises suspense and horror with a signature Peele smattering of thoughtprovoking commentary on the zeitgeist that will keep audiences discussing and theorizing.

Among the most anticipated parts of the film includes the prolific, diversein-every-way cast. Academy Award winner Daniel Kaluuya (“Get Out,” “Judas and the Black Messiah”), vivacious character actor Keke Palmer (“Hustlers”), and Academy Award nominee Steven Yeun (“Minari,” “The Walking Dead”) come together to investigate a mysterious phenomenon that has been abducting residents and animals of the Santa Clarita community.

The film also features an exciting actor to watch in Brandon Perea, the 27-yearold Filipino American actor who, in his feature film debut, delivered a breakout performance.

Perea (Netflix’s “The OA”) — plays Angel Torres, a tech expert who works at the now-closed Fry’s Electronics in Burbank and helps a sibling team of horse trainers — OJ Haywood (Kaluuya) and his sister, Emerald (Palmer) — in capturing footage of a sighted UFO that has been causing their horses to behave violently.

As a character, Angel serves as somewhat of a stand-in for the audience and Perea’s lived-in performance as the comically dry Angel makes you go, “Yeah, I know a guy just like this.” But there’s still a necessary sweetness to Angel that Perea naturally brought to his performance that meshed perfectly with the rest of the principal cast.

When recounting his experience with working on “Nope” with the Asian Journal, Perea beamed, sharing, “I feel like for anyone, that would be an incredible experience and it was truly something I’ve never imagined. I keep calling it a miracle job because that’s the only way to describe it.

Perea shared that he was “an emotional wreck” when he got the role.

“It was funny because I got Jordan to cry as well,” Perea said, recounting a “speech” he gave Peele after getting the part where he said “You know this industry can be so hard and it has its ups and downs and rollercoasters around and I felt that maybe he could relate as well. It was very touching.”

Peele is somewhat of a modern rendering of the great Alfred Hitchcock — a brave visionary who isn’t afraid to push the boundaries of mainstream horror in an attempt to capture a not-toocynical but not-too-cloying

“They’re normal humans going through something crazy. And I think Jordan really knocked it out of the park with bringing the story to a real place.”

The realism within the characters adds to the unsettling nature and the mounting suspense of the film, which, although its central concern is a possible UFO, also begins to unpack the equally as unsettling human obsession with spectacle.

And when it comes to the essential question over whether he believes aliens exist, Perea remains openminded.

“You know what? It is a big universe and it is ever growing as we’re talking right now,” he said.

“There has to be something, and I hope it’s not human form. I hope they look like little green, weird things—” he paused, looking up addressing the extraterrestrial community that may or may not exist, 27-year-old Brandon Perea’s makes his feature film debut in “Nope,” from Academy “Sorry, not weird! Y’all are stunning! Please don’t eat Award-winning writer and director Jordan Peele. me.” something,” Perea said. representation of humanity.

“Nope” comes out in Within 30 seconds of His heroes feel less like theaters on Friday, July 22.

“Nope,” Brandon Perea’s debut film, will be released on Friday, July 22. meeting Angel, it’s clear that types, individuals who are this is the kind of person fallible and with their own who moderates Reddit and quirks. Perea shared that 4chan boards and consumes his audition piece for Angel “Ancient Aliens” every night was a more quirky, nerdy while stoned. It’s a depiction retail worker, but knowing of people who very much exist that Peele opts for the more in the real world, which makes “grounded performances,” the film’s world feel all the Perea peppered in his own more real — and disturbingly knowledge and takes of who this character could be — and so.

With “Nope,” Peele Peele ended up rewriting the sought to create “not only character for Perea. a flying saucer horror film, “Usually what we see but really, the quintessential when we go into retail stores one.” In production notes, are people who don’t really Peele acknowledges wanna be there, so I feel like that’s the energy I usually get that it was an ambitious undertaking, narratively and [from those employees], and Jordan thought that was really technologically, and Peele, once again, takes advantage funny, and that’s what he of the eerieness of liminality ran with: a more hard-nosed and the uncanny valley. character who’s just mad at While the level of horror everything,” Perea shared. is significantly lower than that Initially, Angel comes off of Peele’s previous two films as this dry, know-it-all tech— “Get Out” (which earned savvy person who can’t be Peele the Academy Award bothered with the ignorance for Best Original Screenplay) of the customers he serves, a and “Us” — the character deadpan version of “the kind development in “Nope” is far of person who thinks he’s the more dynamic. smartest person in the room” One of Peele’s strengths type, Perea explained. is his commitment to not just But once he finds out that racially and ethnically diverse OJ and Emerald are different representation, but grounded from his usual clientele, he representation. Each of the softens and becomes an main characters — two Black invaluable companion on the mission to figure out what the leads in Kaluuya and Palmer and two Asian supporting hell is going on in the sky. characters in Perea and Yeun At the start of the — have their own neuroses film, “Angel’s dealing and personalities; they’re with heartbreak, and I feel fascinating characters who like when you deal with heartbreak, you end up in this also happen to be people of color. lonely spot and looking for “That’s what Jordan did purpose. I felt like this mission that they go on can fulfill that so well with ‘Nope’ — he sprinkled in real things about emptiness and purpose and race in these characters but the group becomes a family it isn’t what defines them that Angel’s never really had. completely,” Perea said, He’s trying to be a part of

10

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 20, 2022

Overlook from Top of Crest - Yu Ng, Top Strategic Investor of China IN July 2022, the Library of Congress will add a new Chinese book to its collection, Investment Strategy and Tactics

by Yu Ng. The book is a collection of Mr. Ng’s insights and thoughts on investment strategies in a variety of areas over the past 30 years that will makes readers think long and hard.

In fact, in 2007, Mr. Ng already published his monograph What am I, Rich or Poor?, a best-seller in China back then and recommended on the bookshelves of all major airports in China. Many of the classic arguments from What am I, Rich or Poor? have also been re-edited into this recently published book, Investment Strategy and Tactics.

In this new non-theoretical book, we can see Mr. Ng’s newer conquests and reflections in the investment field after the 15 years since the publication of What am I, Rich or Poor?. Especially in his beloved field of financial investment. Mr. Ng had a glorious history in 1996, he stunned the Chinese securities industry with his brilliant investment performance, and he was honored by the industry as they called 1996 the “Year of Yu Ng”.

Today, 26 years later, his battlefield has leaped from Shenzhen, China to the top end of the international investment industry, Wall Street in New York City.

This experienced investment strategist understands Churchill’s famous quote, “Never let a good crisis go to waste.”

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic brought an unprecedented shock to countless industries, but in Mr. Ng’s eyes, he saw many business opportunities. He was keen to enter the U.S. stock market and tried his luck in the vaccine stock NVAX. He bought the stock for an average of $4 a share and then sold it for $150 after it had risen sharply, which is reaching a more than 30 times increase in just over a year. This fantastic

FABAG Officers with Glendale Councilmembers and Friends

GMA photos

‘Loveless’ Pokwang and Rabiya put work ahead of romance

By AllAn

PolicArPio Inquirer.net

performance gives a deep insight into an investment strategist’s extraordinary foresight, determination, and boldness.

In 2006, Mr. Ng’s personal documentary film on his investment belief and story, Duckweed, was aired on China’s most popular media, CCTV. At the time, Mr. Ng was still an entrepreneur in his early 40s, and it was not an easy treatment that common entrepreneurial figures could enjoy - CCTV aired the 71-minute personal feature documentary film.

Duckweed is still available for watching online (Google keyword: “documentary”, “Duckweed”, and “Yu Ng”).

The name Duckweed is an indication that Mr. Ng is constantly battling in various fields. His entrepreneurial life seems random, but he “floats” firmly on the water, and the water is the basis of his survival.

Now, “floating” has a whole new

meaning that Mr. Ng has floated from China to international and becoming an international expert in investment strategy.

By reading about Mr. Ng’s unique interpretation of the world’s top investment giants, whether Warren Buffett or George Soros, readers will see all above statements are real and true.

It is no exaggeration to say that for those young investors who admire and hope to learn from Buffett or Soros, reading this book will help them understand why they cannot become Buffett or Soros. In other words, Mr. Ng has given a clear answer in the book for what qualification a person must have to become a financial investment expert like Buffett or Soros.

This is the reason why Mr. Ng is the only person from the investment industry among the eight winners of the 12th Annual Outstanding Entrepreneur Award of China-US Business Summit.

Mr. Ng is different from other entrepreneurs who work on the front line of investment in two ways. First, he sees from a high level, from the tactical selection of each investment back to the strategic level of thinking, and then with the overall strategic perspective of a certain field of investment to reflect and guide the decision. Secondly, for an investor who grew up in China and has almost no foreign experience, he can always have an international perspective and thus building a multi-dimensional concept in the comparison between the East and the West.

These qualifications are rare among entrepreneurs in both China and the U.S., and this is precisely the real value of this book on investment philosophy.

FABAG Officers and Board with guests.

FABAG-GLAC celebrates ‘Philippine-American Friendship Day’

GLENDALE, CA — The FilipinoAmerican Business Association of Glendale, Greater Los Angeles County (FABAG-GLAC), in partnership with Glendale YMCA, celebrated “PhilippineAmerican Friendship Day” with Installation of Officers and a Luau Party on Saturday, July 16, 2022 at Glendale YMCA. Highlight of the successful event was the Installation of 2022-23 FABAGGLAC Officers namely: President: Jo Solomonson, Vice-Presidents: Membership - May Mallari, Ami Bautista; Sponsorship/MembershipMarlene Cagatao, Celia DeFato; Media, Government and Community Relations, Programs and Education - Edith M. Fuentes, Theresa De Vera, Josie Inacay; Secretary- Cora Soriano; Treasurer- Nelly Costanios. FABAG’s Past Presidents are Executive Board Members of the Organization. They are: Nini Maldonado, Marlene Cagatao, Edith Fuentes, Joy Quiza and Jo Solomonson.

July is observed as the PhilippineAmerican Friendship Month that pays tribute to the long partnership between the U.S. and the Philippines since 1941.

YMCA President and CEO George Saikali and PP Edith M. Fuentes delivered the Welcome Remarks, followed by VP May Mallari’s Opening Prayer. Dignitaries recognized by VP Josie Inacay were: Senator Anthony Portantino, Mayor Ardy Kassakhian, Philippine Consulate Acting

Rabiya Mateo

Pokwang

FABAG President Jo Solomonson receiving Certificate of Commendation from state Senator Anthony Portantino.

Glendale Mayor Kassakhian administering the Oath of Office to President Jo Solomonson and community relations and programs officer Edith Fuentes.

Head of Post Ambrosio Enciso lll, and District Rep. Michael-Aguilera Gaudette, represented the Office of Congressman Adam Schiff.

The Program was emceed by PP Marlene Cagatao and PP Celia DeFato which included Songs by Agnes Santos, Dances by Vessel of Mary Liturgical Dance Group and Hollywood Dance Moms, Lou Razon, Fashion Designer, presented Miss Philippines USA 2022 Candidates in their Luau outfits, DJ Rene provided upbeat and fun-filled music. “Appetizers and

Merienda” were coordinated by VP May Mallari. PP Nini, VP Ami and Nelly helped with registration and membership sign up.

As Bernadette Blackshaw, a member of the dance group mentioned: “It is truly wonderful to see so many people get together to celebrate Fil-Am Friendship Day! So nice to focus on the positive and the goodness of two nations.”

Before dancing commenced, the group held hands and sang: “That’s What Friends Are For.” (Contributed by Jo Solomonson)

WHILE they both had personal issues to deal with when shooting started for their upcoming game show, “TiktoClock,” Pokwang and Rabiya Mateo knew better than to let whatever emotional baggage they had weigh down their hosting jobs.

Pokwang, who recently revealed that she and her husband, Lee O’Brian, have been separated for seven months now, said in a video conference for the said GMA 7 program: “We have to make the viewers at home happy. Our goal is to spread joy. Whatever sadness you’re feeling, let’s leave that behind, because the viewers have nothing to do with it—they just want to laugh. And we will give them that.”

Rabiya didn’t explicitly confirm rumors that she and Jeric Gonzales have already called it quits. But the Miss Universe Philippines 2020 winner did let on that working in “a highly competitive industry” has taught her to separate her personal problems from her professional life.

“You can’t just go about carrying that load at work, because you’re there to make people happy. No life is perfect—we all have our own problems to face. But that doesn’t mean you should focus on those,” she pointed out.

Grateful for blessings Instead of wallowing in disappointment, Rabiya chooses to be grateful and celebrate the blessings she has been receiving. “It’s part of life. If you fall, get back up and keep yourself busy. There’s so much in life to celebrate. There are lots of people who would like to have a spot like this. It’s a privilege and blessing that I was chosen to do this show,” she said.

Thankfully, her cohosts Pokwang and Kuya Kim Atienza are there to guide her, onscreen and off. “I have an ate and kuya on the set… We’re happy at work. We focus on the positive things that are happening in our lives,” Rabiya said. “This job was given to me because I believe GMA 7 saw potential in me.

And that motivates me to do my very best, so I could keep up Continued on Page 12

Paolo’s Tikbalang design unveiled at Binibining Pilipinas 2022 National Costume show

THE first eight Binibinis who walked the stage at last Saturday’s National Costume show held at the New Frontier Theater included candidates with the loudest cheers.

It started with a nostalgic entry of a favorite childhood memory of running after the taho vendor and ended with a backto-back crowd-pleasing costumes of gigantic proportions.

Camarines Sur candidate Krizzia Lynn Moreno wears the faith and devotion of the Bicolanos to the Our Lady of Peñafrancia, whom they fondly call “Ina.” Designed by Khandie Segovia, the estrellas symbolize their Ina as Stella Matutina or the Morning Star. Kryzzia also carries a handcrafted rosary by Peter Rey Yap in honor of Mary, the Queen of the Most Holy Rosary.

Diana Joy Pinto illustrates Taguig City’s melting pot of cultures in the elegantly understated woven ensemble by renowned fashion designer Renee Salud.

The virgin Christian martyr and saint, St. Catherine of Alexandria, served as inspiration for Jane Darren Genobisa’s national costume. The 4th century martyr is the patron saint of Genobisa’s hometown, Carcar City. Designed by Julien Gentica and Alexis Redecio, the green number is filled with kabkab, a grass species that grows abundantly in Cebu.

After such parade of costumes with saintly inspirations, loud cheers were heard the moment Oriental Mindoro candidate Graciella Sheine Lehmann walked out onto the stage with her allwhite, gigantic Tikbalang costume.

“Eat Bulaga” host Paolo Ballesteros described his creation on his Instagram days before the National Costume show.

“This Tikbalang national costume is fashioned with intertwined branches of the Balete tree that forms the horse head and butterfly sleeves, and hugs the body down to its hooves to conceal the creature’s looming presence. Sheets of translucent, ghostly-white fabric are decoratively draped as its beguiling mane and tail that dance with the wind as it lurks in the shadows.

The body is adorned in lace, with white pearls and rhinestones flickering like diamonds that will captivate anyone who may glimpse at this elusive mythical creature,” Paolo explained.

The Binibining Pilipinas 2022 coronation night will be on July 31. (by Kathleen A. Llemit/Philstar.com)

After such parade of costumes with saintly inspirations, loud cheers were heard the moment Oriental Mindoro candidate Graciella Sheine Lehmann walked out onto the stage with her all-white, gigantic Tikbalang costume.

Photo from Instagram/@bbpilipinasofficial

community

Vegas Loop’s Resorts World station opens The loop within LVCC has been operating for more than a year prior to the opening of the hitting about 30 mph.

IT is an ambitious project that RW station.

News reports say that the when completed will comprise Officials like Resorts World “joyride” in a Tesla Model X or of 55 stations within a 29-mile CEO/President Scott Sibella and Model & costs $1.50, or a day underground tunnel network.

LVCVA CEO/President Steve pass can be bought for $2.50.

Called the Vegas Loop, the Hill who were present at the RW The Vegas Loop has actually project is being undertaken station opening said in news been operating within the

by Elon Musk’s The Boring reports that the project is safe and Las Vegas Convention Center Company. The tunnel network is there are procedures in place in grounds already, providing planned to stretch from Allegiant cases of flood or fire. rides for attendees who want Stadium across the strip to other “It’s extremely safe. As you to go to points across the LVCC points north, and even over to know, these electric cars…there’s campus. The loop actually saves the airport. The ultimate hope no emission, there’s no gas, attendees valuable time as a trip for the company is to be able to there’s exiting in case a car does tunnel all the way to Los Angeles. from the West Hall to the North/ break down. It’s easy to get a Central Hall can take up to 25 Recently, the Resorts minutes. Riding the loop will take car out,” Sibella was quoted as World station for this project saying. approximately only 2 minutes. was opened, with Las Vegas “You can use stations for Within the LVCC, the system Convention Center attendees emergency exits, but there are can transport more than 4,400 and the general public able also exits in the system where you convention attendees per hour to ride the Teslas going within can just open a door and walk across the campus, according the loop. Convention center out, so there’ll be stairwells,” Hill to the Las Vegas Convention attendees can currently get out answered, when asked about and Visitors Authority website. of the station, while others will flood or fire situations. circle back to the RW station. The Passengers load into vehicles The benefits to riding within capable of holding three people, ride from the RW station to the the loop are obvious, especially with future vehicles capable of LVCC West Hall parking lot takes when it is fully complete. Aside holding up to 12 people, it said. over just a minute, with the Tesla from savings on time and the use of cleaner technology, it avoids potential weather delays, surface-level infrastructure and horrendous traffic.

According to LVCVA’s Hill, applications for the next three to four phases of the project are being turned out, although he would not reveal which station might open next.

In the loop’s future destinations are stops are resorts along the Strip, connections to downtown, a loop that goes to W. Flamingo Road and south to Russell Road, and a stop at UNLV. The route to Reid International Airport is a goal for the company, but there are no agreements in place as of yet.

What’s great and unique about the loop is that passengers don’t have to stop at every station on the way to a destination, said Hill.

The LVCVA CEO and president said that Las Vegas is one of the few places in the world where billion-dollar projects such as this is going on all the time.

He believes that the loop is a transformative transportation project for Las Vegas and that “seeing real, substantial progress is pretty gratifying.”

This project represents a huge victory not only for its supporters but for Las Vegas as it probably represents the future in Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman helps those who need business financing, including transportation, or some form of it. loans for small businesses. For more information, call (702) 538-4948, or send What’s not to love about the use email to fely@precious-properties.com or fely.precious@gmail.com.

By RealtoR Fely Quitevis-Bateman

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 20, 2022

A 10-minute walk from Turnberry Place Tower 2 is the Resorts World Hotel (dark building in the background) where the Resorts World station of the Vegas Loop just opened in photo taken by Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman.

of cleaner technology?

The Vegas Loop is just one of the many projects being planned and constructed in the city, which has undergone a tremendous transformation since it became a popular destination. Las Vegas has become known as one of the gambling and entertainment capitals in the world, and the current push is for it to become a sports capital in the world.

Big tracts of land have recently sold along or near the Strip where either major projects are being planned by huge companies or analysts are speculating on the kind of projects being put in those areas. The Oak View Group has its planned $3 billion sports and entertainment hub near the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Blue Diamond Road; The Siegel Group, which purchased about 10 acres near the north part of the Strip, has yet to comment on what it plans for the land, although there are speculations that it may include a casino-hotel, a condominium tower, retail outlets and multifamily apartments; Formula One’s parent company, which completed a $240 million purchase of nearly 40 acres just east of the Strip, and who will run a high-speed race in 2023 in the city; and a 2.2-acre property along Las Vegas Boulevard and Russell Road that was bought for a reported $12.8 million and whose buyer still is a mystery to many

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Dining with Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (extreme right) in Pahrump are her investors: (from left) Ace Realty’s Nida Santos (Realtor Quitevis-Bateman’s friend for almost 40 years, who is a broker from Marikina City, Philippines), Vivian Pahati and Erma de Guzman.

The newly-opened Resorts World Station of the Vegas Loop allows convention attendees to go back and forth between Resorts World and the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Image capture from www.lvcva.com

(no word on what project is being planned for this tract of land).

There are many other deals going about in Las Vegas, including Hard Rock International’s plans to buy The Mirage’s operations for more than $1 billion along with a goal to build a guitar-shaped hotel tower on the Strip, and casino landlord Vici Properties buyout of MGM Resorts International’s real estate spinoff for $17.2 million.

The Fountainbleau Las Vegas, which is currently undergoing construction, is scheduled to open in late 2023.

Even with the recent slowdown in real estate activity, there are still distinct advantages in looking at purchasing real estate in Nevada, whether it is in Las Vegas or communities like Pahrump, which is about less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas. Property prices are still

more affordable in the state than in other major cities/towns in the United States.

I bring a few decades worth of experience in real estate that will help you, my kababayans, in your search for real estate – whether it is for a new home, a second/vacation home, an investment property, or a piece of land where you want to construct your dream home.

My company, Precious Properties, is a full-service company that has served its clientele since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805559-2476 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)

community ‘Loveless’ Pokwang and Rabiya...

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 20, 2022

From Page 10 with them.”

Pokwang made Rabiya comfortable on the set by doing what she does best — making people laugh. “Pinatatawa ko na lang nang pinatatawa. Before we know it, we’re already laughing at our problems…

We’re very blessed because not everyone is given a chance like this. So what we need to do is be grateful and show that to our viewers,” she said.

Open for new love “Be happy. Happiness is contagious… And that will be reflected onscreen,” Pokwang

added.

Needless to say, Pokwang and Rabiya are putting work over love life for now. “Hindi ko kinokontra si God,” Pokwang said, when asked if she was open for a new love. “But I’m just leaving everything to Him. Bahala na po Kayo. I will just keep busy with work.”

“I’m focusing on my career.

That’s what they told me as well,” Rabiya said. “I want to be good at hosting.”

Directed by Louie Ignacio, “TiktoClock” airs weekday mornings starting July 25.

The variety show features timed games, buzzer-beater performances and interactive segments, where studio audience and home viewers get a chance to win prizes.

Rabiya admitted that she initially found Pokwang intimidating. “I was scared of her at first. But eventually, you feel that Mamang really has a mother’s touch. Sometimes, when you’re not feeling well, she will be there, offering medicine or food. Even if she has been in the industry for a long time, her heart is still there in whatever she does,” she related.

Answered prayer “We have different backgrounds, humor and personalities, but when you combine us, it’s a riot. I’m still new and have a lot to learn. And hindi siya maramot,” she added.

One thing Rabiya enjoys about hosting is that she can be herself and make fun of her mistakes—a far cry from her pageant days, where she was expected to be prim and proper. “I get to show the real me,” she said.

Because Pokwang knew Rabiya as a beauty queen, the comedienne expected the show biz newbie to act more conservatively. “Pero walang arte,” said Pokwang, who enjoys hosting because it reminds her of her comedy bar days.

“It’s an answered prayer.

This is what I love to do. I started out in comedy bars and I thrive on the stage, talking on the microphone and seeing the people’s reaction. I’m an entertainer,” she said.

Patricia on 16-year marriage: It’s constant give-and-take

By Pat

P Daza Philstar.com

I MET Patricia Javier more than 20 years ago when she was just starting her movie career as a sexy actress. She was in her early 20s then and quickly became a household name thanks to the 1999 box-office sensation, Ang Kabit Ni Mrs. Montero, which effectively showcased her killer body and beautiful, morena face.

Patricia not only had the body and looks, she also knew how to act. That’s why it was so surprising that at the height of her career, she decided to tie the knot in 2005 with her now-husband, Dr. Robert “Rob” Walcher, and live in California.

A few years ago, however, Patricia, her hubby (who is a famous chiropractor in California) and their two kids, decided to make Manila their home.

I saw her a couple of weeks ago when she guested on the morning show of NET25, Kada Umaga. I asked her if she could spare a few minutes for an online catch-up interview, and she readily agreed. Here are the highlights of our interview: Describe briefly how you met your husband.

“I met my husband when I traveled to San Diego, California for a Filipino community event.

We have common friends. It was ‘love at first chiropractic alignment.’ LOL!” Describe your family life.

“I’ve been married for 16 years. We have two adorable boys: Robert is 15 years old and Ryan James is 10. We are very

Patricia Javier with husband Dr. Robert ‘Rob’ Walcher

hands-on parents, and we love to do activities together as a family.

Our favorite thing to do is to travel.”

Why did you decide to move back here with your family?

“We decided to move back to Manila almost seven years ago now because first, we felt it was perfect timing for our kids to experience life here while they are still young. I want our kids to be more flexible and embrace Filipino culture. Second, I want to continue our advocacy of spreading awareness on wellness, through the power of chiropractic alignment, to our kababayans.”

How do you support each other when it comes to your individual careers?

“We support each other all the time. When I met Dr. Rob, my eventual husband, I was at the height of my career. But I decided to follow my heart so I stayed in the USA for 13 years to build my own family. I’m the one who suggested that he try living in Manila and he also supported me on that. Our marriage is a constant give-and-take. We always compliment each other and respect one another’s privacy and opinions.”

Was your business affected by the pandemic? If yes, how did you cope? And how is it now?

“Yes, we were also affected.

Only 50 percent of our patients could visit the clinic because half of the people were scared to go out. But we are very thankful and grateful that our business The couple and their two kids — Robert, 15 belongs to the category of and Ryan, 10. essentials during the pandemic.

Photos from Instagram/@patriciajaviers Right now, all our clinics are

open to give the best service for wellness because we really need to be strong and healthy to fight sickness. Chiropractic care is more about prevention, and that’s why chiropractic care should be a lifestyle.”

Please talk about your other business ventures.

“We added more services in our clinics, like live blood analysis, colonics and anti-aging drip.

My brothers and I also took the Naturopath course. We want our clinic to be a one-stop-center for wellness.”

People see your husband to get relief from back pains caused mainly by stress. How does your husband de-stress?

“Our clinic is focused on helping our clients and their families live a healthy lifestyle.

We focus on the cause of the problem. My husband is very happy to give back to the community by helping our kababayans to be healthy.

We decided to establish our Doc Rob Share your Blessings Foundation. Our programs are education, livelihood and homebuilding for our kababayans.

Every time you buy a product or avail of the services from the Doc Rob Wellness Center, you are helping our foundation to continue helping others. My husband is a very hard-working man and a very good father because even after his work, he spends quality time with our family. My kids are so blessed to have a father like him and I’m very grateful to have him in my life.”

What do you enjoy doing together as a family?

“We like to work out at the gym with our kids and swim!”

Parent’s right to change child’s residence to another state in custody cases Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes

standard. Court will look at the factors and decide what is in the best interest of the child.

Custody is usually given to the parent that is more likely to allow frequent and continuing contact between the child and the other parent. On the other hand if there has been a final Custody determination, then the non-custodial parent would have to show a “significant change in circumstances” to change the custody arrangement.

The Court would then consider certain factors laid out in the case Marriage of LaMusga in deciding whether the child would suffer detriment from the relocation and whether a change of custody should be ordered. The La Musga factors which the Court will consider are 1) the children’s interest in stability and continuity in the custodial arrangement; 2) the distance of the move; 3) the children’s age; 4)the children’s relationship with both parents; 5) the relationship between the parents including, but not limited to, their ability to communicate and cooperate effectively and their willingness to put the children’s interests above their individual interests; 6) the children’s wishes if they are mature enough to make that inquiry appropriate; 7) the

reasons for the proposed move; and 8) the extent to which the parents currently are sharing custody. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Board Certified Family Law Specialist.

He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

community

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - July 20, 2022

Immigrant Living: 101 and BeMonette AdevA MAglAyA

EIGHTY percent of things don’t matter; twenty percent do.

PARENTS that are going That is essentially the through divorce and legal Pareto Principle. Vilfredo separation sometimes have to Pareto, an Italian sociologist make a decision to move out of in the late nineteenth century, state for various reasons. It may introduced the concept of the be because their family network 80/20 rule. is in another state. This It states that in any given decision often have a significant group, only 20 percent will impact on the visitation of constitute what is important the other parent because it and the remaining 80 percent would be more difficult for the will be trivial. This rule is non-custodial parent to exercise referred to as the “vital few” his or her visitation rights in a and the “trivial many”. frequent and continuing manner While this concept was if the custodial parent moves originally meant to be applied to a different state hundreds or to the principles of economics thousands of miles away from and sociology, the 80/20 rule the non custodial parent. can be applied to just about The parent that has Custody anything that involves a list or of the child has a presumptive a group of elements in daily right to change the child’s life. residence unless the non Using the Pareto principle custodial parent can show that on just about anything in life the move would be a detriment cuts through the muck. It to the child. In cases where translates complexities to its there has not been any final simplest forms and with few custody order, the court has to exceptions, clear anyone’s life make a custody determination using “the best interest” (Advertising Supplement) of overwhelming junk, in both tangible and intangible ways.

This is one way of avoiding, or at the very least, minimizing la vida loca with too much stuff on our daily plate of stuff to do.

By Jan Milo Severo In a list of goals for Philstar.com instance, using the Pareto principle will force someone to KAPAMILYA actor Paulo Avelino prioritize the top two or three admitted that young and aspiring directors inspire him to become a director goals that are significant to him. Use this principle when someday.

In the Globe Prepaid’s GoWATCH Film dealing with a list of things to Lab, Paulo said watching movies by young do for the day. Recognizing the few important ones and filmmakers inspires him. doing them ahead of the trivial “It inspires me in so many ways. One ones will keep you from being of my favorite things is to watch and see sidetracked. Our to-do lists new talents being discovered and honed become shorter, more realistic into someone who makes waves in the and more manageable. industry. I’m so excited to see their A mountain of tasks can projects and pitches,” Paulo said. overwhelm. But those who “To inspire me to become a director, slice and dice can get things maybe someday. When I see these young done. Many try to get around people pitch their stories, parang minsan you get to realize that some people deserve by nibbling at the small, easy things around the edges, a chance more than I do, so I like to see putting off the more important Paulo Avelino Photo from Instagram/@pauavelino them do it before me,” he added.

Paulo Avelino on being a director

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The 80/20 Rule “The art of being wise is knowing what to overlook.”

—William James

ones for later until time is up and the important ones are left undone. By making it a habit to spot the important ones first and “slay these dragons” ahead of anything else, there is a certain sense of calm that one acquires even if not everything in the list has been done.

The wonderful thing about adopting a “Pareto frame of mind” is that you begin to develop the habit of clear thinking that, not only gives you more time, it can also provide you with more space — clutter free.

Pareto your email inbox, phone and text messages.

Zap away the obvious spam and scam. Block off the blockheads. Limit your social media exposure. Or better yet, get off social media altogether. Regard links with a cynical eye. Beware of malware. Stay away from promises of good fortune or “too good to be true” personalities and you will be relatively free of hackers and people who make a living duping others and draining other people’s wallets and bank accounts on the internet.

There are too many lonely people seeking romance who have been bilked dry by conmen Cassanovas.

The Beatles’ lyrics on Eleanor Rigby come to mind. “All the lonely people, where do they all come from?” Real life, dear ladies and gentelemn, still beats the virtual world of makebelieve. Very rarely will true love connections come from today’s internet.

If you want to simplify your life, you can look at your possessions and decide which things are important for you to keep and which ones should be sold or given away, thus reclaiming the space for you to enjoy.

You can also apply this to the clutter of too many unrelated hopes and dreams that are in that future state of being called the “Someday Isle”. You can narrow these down to only the important goals and be free of the downright preposterous.

The brain also benefits from using the 80/20 rule. In lengthy, circuitous discussions of problems and solutions, having a sharp, incisive mind helps one to get down to the root of the problem quickly, shorten the angst and pain of indecision and come up with the right solution in less time it normally takes to mull over a problem.

The nature of modern life screams for many things to be done all at the same time.

With time saving devices purportedly meant to squeeze as much as can be done in our waking hours, expectations can become unrealistic.

The stress of trying to do too much too soon can make anyone ill in body and mind or at worse, make us drop down dead on our tracks.

Weighing things according to importance may even be more valuable than learning how to multitask. This acquired skill of gauging the value of tasks can add so much to the quality of one’s life freeing up more time to simply sit still, do absolutely nothing and enjoy life.

“Pareto” your life. You’ll be glad you did. ***

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints ex p resse d by t h e a u t h o r d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

***

Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya writes for Asian Journal Publications, Inc. Her opinions are her own. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@asianjournalinc. com.

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