072823 - San Diego Edition

Clarkson commits to play for Gilas in FIBA World Cup

After much speculation that brought uncertainty in recent weeks, Utah Jazz star Jordan Clarkson is set to reinforce Gilas Pilipinas in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

“Confirmed,” was Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio’s brief response to the Manila Times’ query on Tuesday.

The presence of the 31-year-old NBA star meant Clarkson taking the spot of naturalized player for Gilas, which is shooting to be the best finishing team in Asia that would mean securing an automatic slot in the Paris Olympics next year.

The Filipino-American guard out of Missouri is coming off a solid NBA season

Marcos lays out plans to ensure food security

by aLden M. Monzon,

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. outlined on Monday his administration’s grand plan to secure the country’s food supply, focusing on expanding the number of governmentbacked food stores, boosting agricultural production, and pursuing a relentless campaign against smugglers and hoarders of agricultural goods whom he blamed for the escalation in the prices of basic food items.

During his State of the Nation Address (Sona) marking the end of his first year in office, Marcos said the “Kadiwa stores” — centers that directly link farmers to consumers thus leading to higher incomes for producers and lower prices for buyers

— were essential in bringing down the prices of rice, meat, fish, vegetable and sugar. The Kadiwa program was first introduced during the term of his father, Ferdinand Sr., and was revived in 2022 as part of his strategies as concurrent head of the Department of Agriculture to make basic food items more affordable to the masses.

“Malaking tulong ang mga Kadiwa stores, na ating muling binuhay at inilunsad. Ang layunin ng Kadiwa ay pag-ugnayin ang magsasaka at ang mamimili. Walang iba pang namamagitan. Walang dagdag na gastos at patong,” Marcos said during his televised national address.

[Translation: “Kadiwa stores, which we have revived and launched, have been a huge help. The purpose of Kadiwa is to connect farmers and consumers. No middlemen. No added cost and

markup.”]

The President said they launched more than 700 Kadiwa stores nationwide which benefited 1.8 million families.

“The results were good so we will expand Kadiwa to the whole country,” he said in Filipino.

Smuggling

The President also reiterated his commitment to go after smugglers and hoarders of agricultural products, vowing to prosecute these criminals behind high prices of basic goods.

“Napapahamak hindi lamang ang mga magsasaka, kundi tayo na ring mga mamimili. Kaya hindi natin papayagan ang ganitong kalakaran. Bilang na ang mga araw ng mga smugglers at hoarders na iyan ,” he said.

Egay cuts destructive path through Luzon

LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte, Philippines — Fierce howling winds and heavy rains spawned by Typhoon Egay (international name: Doksuri) left at least five dead in Batangas, Rizal, and Ilocos Sur provinces, as the typhoon barreled through Luzon on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to reports gathered by the Inquirer.

More than 12,000 people in the hard-hit regions of Ilocos and Cagayan Valley huddled in temporary shelters while thousands of households were left without power, as Egay burst riverbanks, uprooted trees, ripped roofs off houses, and pounded coastal communities, including isolated villages tucked away in forests.

While the Inquirer verified the deaths of five persons due to Egay from local official sources, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported only one fatality and two injured on Wednesday afternoon.

How

the West Coast’s Only Heat Officer is Cooling LA

LOS ANGELES — As triple-digit summer temperatures sweep Southern California, Marta Segura is treating extreme heat as a public health crisis.

Segura, LA’s Climate Emergency Mobilization Director, also became its first Chief Heat Officer (CHO) in June 2022. As the region has seen record July heat with little relief, she has prioritized accessibility to cooling resources, particularly for underserved LA communities.

Extreme heat, the country’s top weatherrelated killer, is generally defined as at least two to three days of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. On an extreme heat day, there’s an average of 8,222 more emergency room visits across California for related issues. Of these, 1,510 are in LA County alone. An

Philippines projected to be world’s 14th largest economy by 2075

Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is projected to land in the top 15 largest economies in the world by 2075, as emerging markets are projected to outgrow their developed counterparts.

In a report released last month, Goldman Sachs said it forecasts the Philippines to be the 14th largest economy in the world by 2075, surpassing France which is projected to fall to the 15th spot by that year.

The Philippines is one of the two Southeast Asian nations on the list, with

Bolden’s golden goal leads Filipinas to historic World Cup win over New Zealand

by Luisa MoraLes Philstar.com

PH open to all options to address sea row with China — Bersamin

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine women’s national football team won their first match in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup as they nipped co-hosts New Zealand, 1-0, in Group A action at Sky Stadium in Wellington on Tuesday.

Sarina Bolden made it the dream match for the Filipinas when she headed in a cross from Sara Eggesvik built off a set piece at the 24th minute.

Bolden soared above two Kiwi defenders and put just enough power behind it to get it past the keeper’s gloves, etching her name in Philippine sports history.

The game’s only goal was enough to propel

u PAGE 4

EXECUTIVE Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Tuesday said the Philippine government is considering all options, including bringing this to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), to address the country’s issues with China in the West Philippine Sea.

Bersamin made the statement after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. failed to mention some issues during his second State of the Nation Address (SONA), including the several reported instances of harassment by the Chinese Coast Guard against Filipinos in the disputed waters.

“It was very clear that his speech was referring to this issue. But even if I said

It said Egay affected a total of 309,909 persons, or 93,109 families from 460 barangays in Ilocos, u PAGE 2

18 PNP officials linked to drugs shown the door

by dexter CabaLza, nestor CorraLe Inquirer.net

MANILA, Philippines — A day after he announced in his second State of the Nation Address that he would let go of “unscrupulous law enforcers and others involved in the highly nefarious drug trade,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. accepted the courtesy resignations of 18 officials of the Philippine National Police, including three generals, for their alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.

A statement released on Tuesday, July 25 by Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil identified two of the three

officials as Brigadier Generals Remus Medina and Randy Peralta.

Both served as chief of the PNP’s primary anti-drug unit, the Drug Enforcement Group (DEG), under the previous administration. Medina headed the DEG from April 2021 to February 2022 and was succeeded by Peralta who served until July 2022. Both belong to the PNP Academy’s Tagapaglunsad Class of 1993. The third official was Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, who was among the Top 3 graduates of PNPA Class of 1993. He served as Caraga regional police office

Photo from AFP / Marty Melville

Meg J. adoni Inquirer.net

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, and PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. Inquirer file photo

Photo from Ethnic Media Center

PNP officials linked to drugs shown...

director until he was put on floating status last week during the latest revamp implemented by PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.

Based on PNP records, the three are far from the compulsory retirement age of 56: Medina was supposed to serve until Oct. 6, 2026; Peralta, March 16, 2026; and Labra, Aug. 4, 2024.

The 15 other police officials whose resignations were also accepted by the President were Colonels Rogarth Campo, Rommel Ochave, Rommel Velasco, Robin Sarmiento, Fernando Ortega, Rex Derilo, Julian Olonan, Rolando Portera, Lawrence Cajipe, Dario Menor, Joel Kagayed Tampis, Michael David, Igmedio Bernaldez, Rodolfo Albotra Jr. and Marvin Sanchez.

“So what will happen is, once we get the official word of the President and our PNP chief has been informed, they (the 18 police officials) will now be informed that their resignation has been accepted, so they will now be severed from the service,” Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos told reporters during an interview at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

“All that I will say is this, it has been accepted, and once it has been accepted, you can already conclude what has been the basis for this,” he said. Abalos added that the PNP and his department would study whether to file charges against the police officers who, according to Acorda, were “continuously being monitored.”

The PNP chief said the necessary orders for

the officers’ relief from their present positions would be immediately issued. They would then be placed on floating status and reassigned to the Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit of the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Records Management “to preclude them from exerting further influence and/or performing illegal activities using their positions.”

The 18 were among 953 PNP officers who underwent screening by a five-man independent panel between February and April for their possible involvement in the narcotics trade.

The screening followed an appeal from Abalos in January for all police generals and colonels to submit their courtesy resignations to give way to a “cleansing” of the PNP.

In May, the National Police Commission (Napolcom) recommended that Marcos refuse the courtesy resignations filed by 917 of the 953 officers. As for the rest, Abalos said more investigations were necessary to prevent innocent officers from being wrongly implicated.

Backers

Among the 18 police officers, only Olonan was among the 50 PNP personnel charged by Napolcom before the Office of the Ombudsman in July over their alleged involvement in the controversial antidrug operation in October 2022, which led to the confiscation of 990 kilos of “shabu” or crystal meth worth P6.7 billion.

Of the 50 respondents, 12 were commissioned officers. Two were generals: Lt. Gen. Benjamin Santos Jr., formerly the PNP’s third highest-

Clarkson commits to play for Gilas in ...

Days after, Gilas came back with vengeance, blasting Saudi Arabia, 84-46 at the Mall of Asia Arena as Clarkson went on to post averages of 25 points, 5.5 rebounds and 6.5 assists.

Gilas coach Chot Reyes has been managing the pool since June after a number of players sustained various injuries.

Bobby Ray Parks, Calvin Oftana and Roger Pogoy failed to join the team in its Europe training camp recently. But the trio managed to rejoin the team when Gilas resumes its practice in Manila over a week ago.

ranking official as deputy chief for operations, and Brig. Gen. Narciso Domingo, former DEG director.

Medina and Peralta were previously implicated as backers of dismissed Master Sgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr., the owner of the Wealth and Personal Development Lending Inc. office in Tondo, Manila, where the DEG officers seized the drugs that were hidden in Chinese tea packs.

Mayo had managed to be recruited as an intelligence officer for the DEG’s Special Operations Unit in the National Capital Region despite the fact that he was sent to Mindanao in

2016 as punishment for his alleged involvement in illegal drugs.

He is currently detained while charges against him are being heard in court.

While looking through footage of the raid taken by a closed-circuit TV camera, the PNP discovered that several DEG officers took some of the drugs before an inventory was conducted.

The stolen 42 kilograms of shabu, which were supposedly meant as a “reward” for police informants, were later recovered in an abandoned car parked on Boni Serrano Avenue in San Juan City, near the PNP headquarters. n

Egay cuts destructive path through...

Wednesday.

families.

that saw him register a careerhigh 20.8 points, to go along with 4.0 rebounds and 4.4 assists in 61 regular season games.

The sweet-shooting Clarkson brings versatility to a Gilas side that will kick off its FIBA World Cup group stage match against Dominican Republic on Aug. 25 at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

The Philippines, then takes on

Angola, followed by Italy in its last two group stage assignments.

Clarkson saw action for Gilas during the fourth window of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, where the Filipinos split their two games.

The NBA star teamed up with young big man Kai Sotto for the first time in that window in August 2022, but Gilas fell short, 85-81 against Lebanon in Beirut.

As of the moment, Scottie Thompson is still undergoing rehab on his shooting hand.

Gilas will join the pocket tournament in China from Aug. 2-5 as it faces Iran, Lebanon and Senegal.

The Filipinos have also secured a friendly match against Mexico a week before the national squad makes its FIBA World Cup debut against Dominican Republic.

(By Richard Dy/ Manila TImes)

Cagayan Valley, Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas and Soccsksargen.

Of these, 12,202 individuals, or 3,823 families, were in evacuation centers.

One of the fatalities, 31-year-old Mike Fernandez of Narvacan town in Ilocos Sur, was electrocuted when he touched a grounded power post while moving his pet dog to a safer spot on Tuesday night, authorities said.

A responding team from the Narvacan Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) said the victim died while being rushed to a nearby hospital.

In Ramon town, Isabela province, bread vendor Ofelia Daculan, 52, died after a coconut tree fell on her at dawn on Wednesday.

Two other women were reported to have drowned in Rizal province, even before Egay made landfall over Fuga Island in Aparri, Cagayan, at past 3 a.m. on Wednesday.

Police said Adelfa Escolano, 71, was found dead at 11 a.m. on Tuesday after her house was swept by a flash flood at Barangay Iglesia in Cardona.

In Baras town, the body of Delisa Largo was found floating at Laguna Lake near Kasarinlan Park in Barangay Santiago around 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

At a resort in Calatagan, Batangas, Gorgan Hagesater, 42, a Norwegian, drowned after he was swept away by big waves while swimming with his friend and compatriot Christian Atle Hanse, 43, on Tuesday afternoon, police said.

P173-M standby fund

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who was in Kuala Lumpur for a three-day state visit, said the government had prepared a standby fund for disaster response; deployed search, rescue, and retrieval teams; and positioned relief items for distribution to affected

“The more than P173 million standby funds and food and non-food items are ready, and the search, rescue, and retrieval personnel from our Armed Forces [of the Philippines], Bureau of Fire Protection, and [Philippine] Coast Guard have been deployed,” he said on Twitter a few hours before Egay’s landfall.

Marcos reported that electricity had been restored in 93.53 percent of the towns affected by Egay.

He said the government was attending to the needs of 38,991 families affected by the typhoon and the intensified “habagat” or southwest monsoon across eight regions.

Malacañang said Marcos instructed Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Wednesday to “continuously coordinate” with local chief executives and to ensure that the national government could augment resources should the local government units run out of supplies.

In its Wednesday bulletin, the state weather bureau warned the public of “violent and life-threatening” conditions in parts of northern Luzon, with Egay packing maximum sustained winds of 175 kilometers per hour (kph) and gusts of up to 240 kph.

If it continues to move northwestward at 10 kph, Egay is predicted to leave the country’s area of responsibility by Thursday morning.

State of calamity

Close to 7,000 families, or 22,000 people, were displaced in Ilocos and Cagayan Valley regions as a result of floods and landslides, according to the Office of Civil Defense and various reports from local DRRMOs.

Data showed that more than 3,580 families or 12,000 people were forced to stay in evacuation centers in the two regions, which bore the brunt of the devastation.

Ilocos Norte was declared in a state of calamity on

During a special session, the provincial board approved Resolution No. 2023-07-173 allowing officials to tap local government’s Quick Response Fund to bring immediate relief to affected residents.

Assessment of damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and properties was ongoing, but provincial board member Franklin Respicio said that so far, “hundreds of millions of pesos worth of damages to agriculture, infrastructure and other properties, including a number of residents were rendered homeless” because of Egay.

Power outages affected large parts of the province while communication signals were intermittent.

The northern portion of the province remains under Signal No. 4 while the rest is under Signal No. 3.

Rescue operations

In Baguio City, a taxi driver and a car wash attendant were rescued from a landslide that buried a shanty within the compound of the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center at 8 a.m. on Wednesday. The two men sustained minor injuries and were treated at the hospital, police said.

In Ilocos Norte, a man from the capital city of Laoag was saved from raging floodwaters after the Padsan River overflowed. The man had been trying to save his livestock from being swept by the water. The Benguet Electric Cooperative said all lines were down in its service areas. Only the Mankayan substation in Benguet province remained with power.

Benguet Rep. Eric Yap on Wednesday appealed to the government to send immediate aid to residents of Benguet.

Citing multiple unofficial reports of dead or missing victims, he said: “Benguet is in dire need of help… We need forces for intensified operations for disaster rescue and relief.” (Inquirer.net)

DELUGE IN THE NORTH | Torrential rains and gusty winds whipped up by Typhoon Egay (international name: Doksuri) left a trail of destruction across northern Luzon on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. In La Trinidad, Benguet, a stretch of Pines Park Diversion Road has gone underwater and the province is “in dire need of help,” according to Benguet Rep. Eric Yap. Photo from La Trinidad Municipal Government

Jordan Clarkson Photo from FIBA

Marcos lays out plans to ensure food...

[Translation: “It’s not just the farmers who get in trouble, but also us consumers. So, we will not allow this trend. The days of these smugglers and hoarders are numbered.”]

The bravado failed to impress a farmer’s group that instead urged the Marcos administration to actually put these smugglers and hoarders behind bars.

“These smugglers and hoarders need to actually be brought to justice this year because they are the main reasons why the prices of agricultural products are high,” said Jayson Cainglet, executive director of Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (Sinag).

Danilo Fausto, president of the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc., agreed, saying that “stopping and penalizing smugglers, hoarders, and price manipulators are necessary and a must for the government in order to protect farmers, fair trade, and the economy.”

Fausto and Cainglet lamented that to this day, none of the supposed smugglers and hoarders had been found guilty.

According to Cainglet, evidence presented by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) during congressional hearings were often deemed insufficient, thus halting further investigations.

“None have proceeded beyond the preliminary investigations. All [of the cases] have been dismissed,” he said.

Nevertheless, Sinag welcomed the proposed amendments to the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act that lawmakers claimed would help the President’s drive against “unfair practices that hurt consumers and local farmers alike.”

Like Sinag, Marikina Rep. and House appropriations panel vice chair Stella Quimbo cheered Mr. Marcos’ stand against smuggling and hoarding.

“It is a manifestation of his conviction that smuggling, hoarding, cartels are huge problems and that curbing these will have a huge impact on food inflation. These have been systemic, decades-old problems. First time, as far as I recall that a President has made such strong pronouncements.”

Inflation

Marcos also pointed out in his Sona that the biggest problem

that confronted his young administration was inflation, with global events such Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic leading to high prices of basic commodities.

Nevertheless, it has been decelerating for five straight months, putting the Marcos administration closer to its target of containing inflation to between 2 and 4 percent.

Marcos stressed that inflation was “stabilizing” and “moving in the right direction.”

This bolsters his claim that the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals remained strong.

He touted the Philippines’ economic growth in 2022, his first year in office, saying that the country achieved its fastest growth rate in 46 years despite the lingering impact of the pandemic.

“While the global prospects were bleak, our economy posted a 7.6-percent growth in 2022 — our highest growth rate in 46 years. For the first quarter of the year, our growth registered at 6.4 percent. It remains within our target of 6 to 7 percent for 2023. We are still considered to

be among the fastest-growing economies in the Asian region and the world,” he said.

Marcos also said that higher revenue collections will be critical in his administration’s bid to boost public investments, citing that they project the government’s tax and revenues by 2028 to increase up to 16.9 percent and 17.3 percent, respectively.

From January to May, the Bureau of Internal Revenue said it posted record collection amounting to P1.05 trillion, an increase of almost 10 percent from last year, while the BOC collected P476 billion during the first seven months of the year, an increase of 7.4 percent during the same period in 2022.

However, it must be noted that the Philippine economy had barely recovered what it lost at the height of the devastating pandemic in 2020 with gross domestic product growing to P19.94 trillion in 2022, just 3 percent higher than the prepandemic level in 2019 of P19.38 trillion, according to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Think tank Ibon Foundation

also pointed out that while the inflation rate indeed lowered, this only meant that prices “only rose slower recently.”

In reality, the group said rice prices, for example, rose from P42 to P45, more than double Mr. Marcos’ famous promise to bring down rice prices to P20 a kilo. Indeed, almost all commodities — onions, garlic, sugar, meat, fish and vegetable prices, water, electricity, and transport rates — increased under his administration, Ibon claimed.

“[Marcos] confirms his position as the country’s premier superspreader of hyperbolic and fantastic narratives, after a tedious Sona that struggled to give even flimsiest evidence of any progress,” said Ibon executive director Sonny Africa. The president of the country’s largest business organization, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said they were “generally satisfied” with the plans outlined by Mr. Marcos during his Sona, noting, in particular, the plans to bring in more renewable energy investments and recalibrating the K-12 curriculum. n

estimated 16 additional people there die on the first day of extreme heat, with 40 more deaths a day by the fifth.

These hospitalizations and deaths disproportionately affect communities of color living in low-income, historically redlined neighborhoods, said Segura, “where the houses don’t have AC or air filtration.

When you start approaching heat vulnerability that way, it’s not only a sustainability issue — it’s public works, building development, water and power, tree shade and park access, and certainly a matter of public health.”

Heat is the top public health risk in LA, which experiences heat waves five times more often than it did 10 years ago.

As extreme heat waves in Los Angeles become longer, more frequent and more intense, public outreach becomes ever-more crucial. Across her Heat Relief 4 LA social media campaign, Segura emphasizes that “It’s not your typical summer anymore. Extreme heat can run from June to November.

As this means our bodies have less time to recover, we also distribute information on symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and resources to cool off before hitting that point.”

Foremost among these resources are cooling centers; in Los Angeles, currently 119 are open. “We’ve established cooling centers and hydration resources throughout the city in facilities like libraries, senior centers and community centers,” said Segura. “We also made an app, Cool Spots LA, where you can find where and when they’re open, alongside other cooling spots like shade structures, hydration stations, and bus shelters.” Currently, only a quarter of all LA Metro bus stops are shaded.

The need for heat interventions like these can vary drastically from neighborhood to neighborhood, partly because of the region’s coastal and inland microclimates.

Accordingly, the city’s emergency alert system now uses National Weather Service data to identify heat wave severity in specific parts of LA.

However, these stark regional heat differences also owe to shade inequity. Research shows

that with each 10% of canopy cover, trees keep ground-level temperatures about 2 degrees cooler. In a city where over half the surfaces are dark concrete or asphalt — which absorbs up to 90% of solar radiation — 20% of tree canopies are concentrated in four neighborhoods where less than 1% of the population live.

To address this inequity, 65,000 trees have been planted citywide in continuation of a 2019 plan by former Mayor Eric Garcetti to increase canopy coverage 50% by 2028 across LA’s least green neighborhoods. The aim is 90,000 trees by 2028.

Environmental inequity is a testament to why extreme heat is a public health issue, said Segura. “LA’s least green areas are historically disadvantaged neighborhoods where we not only see more heat-related illnesses but also more pollution and exacerbated chronic illnesses like asthma.” Hence, life expectancy in wealthy areas with ample green space like Beverly Hills is as high as 90, while that in disadvantaged south LA neighborhoods less than 15 miles away is as low as 77.

Thus, she continued, when heat policies “coordinate with departments across the city, the county, and” — under Gov. Gavin Newsom’s historic $800 million Extreme Heat Action Plan — “the state, the result can be life-saving.” Nevertheless, CHOs remain rare. Segura is joined by only two in the nation — in Phoenix, Arizona and Miami, Florida — and seven worldwide.

However, she continued, it’s becoming a matter of course for cities to develop not only general climate plans, but also heat action plans. These are largely a matter of “short-term planning for public engagement and emergency response, and long-term planning for public health and resilient infrastructure,” she added.

The heart of her work as LA’s CHO, Segura said, is aligning climate equity gaps with public health results: “to treat one is to improve the other. We can see the results all over the world — if we have no plan, it’s only going to get hotter and hotter.” (Selen Ozturk/Ethnic Media Center)

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and House Speaker Martin Romualdez applaud the President as he emphasizes a point in his second State of the Nation Address.

Photo by Marianne Bermudez / Philippine Daily Inquirer

the Filipinas to their first ever win in the Women’s World Cup.

But the home team didn’t give up the win without multiple scoring attempts — particularly in the second half where there were many close calls.

The closest one was Jacqui Hand’s header a little past the hour mark that actually got past Olivia McDaniel, who was a brick wall all throughout.

But after VAR review, the Football Ferns were deemed offside in the buildup. After

celebrations in Wellington, the goal was waved off and the Filipinas were ahead once again. McDaniel also provided some crucial saves well into added time to preserve the scoreline.

The Filipinas thus put themselves in a good position to move on to the knockout rounds when they face World No. 12 Norway on July 30 in Auckland. They now have three points, tied with New Zealand, and Switzerland. Switzerland and Norway face off in Group A action later today. The Football Ferns triumphed

over Norway in their World Cup opener last Thursday in Auckland, 1-0, while the Filipinas absorbed a fighting 0-2 loss to Switzerland in their debut the following day in Dunedin.

The Philippines and New Zealand previously engaged in a tightly-fought friendly in Fullerton, California in 2022. There, the wide-eyed Filipinas, then ranked 56th in the world, pushed the No. 22 Kiwis to the limit before conceding, 2-1, on account of two second-half goals from New Zealand. - With a previous report by Olmin Leyba

diplomacy is the approach that this administration will take, I am sure that the President is very firm that he will not surrender any inch of our territory or sovereignty to any foreign power,” Bersamin said on television.

Bersamin also responded to calls asking the Marcos government to raise the issue of Beijing’s aggression to the UNGA in September.

If the issue is brought to the UNGA or the UN Security Council, he said that the most the Philippines can get is a resolution, which may still be ignored by China.

“We can bring that to the attention of the UN General Assembly, but all we can hope for is a resolution,” Bersamin said.

“But we are not ruling out anything because that is also part of our diplomatic tact, bringing this to the attention of the UNGA or the Security Council. Nothing is given up there, nothing is abandoned. All these options are open to us,” he added.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri had said

that the upper chamber will pass a resolution urging the government to raise the issue of Beijing’s aggression to the UNGA.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros backed this possible move.

She filed Senate Resolution 659 in June, calling on the government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), to sponsor a resolution before the UNGA that will call on China to stop its harassment of Filipino vessels in the West Philippine Sea.

This development came after several reports on the China Coast Guard allegedly putting at risk the lives of Filipinos who were in a resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal this year.

Early this month, the Armed Forces of the Philippines reported more than 50 Chinese vessels have swarmed the vicinity of Iroquois Reef and Sabina Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

In his SONA on Monday, Marcos remained mum on the Philippines’ claim over the West Philippine Sea, but maintained that the country’s independent foreign policy has been effective. n

Indonesia seen becoming the world’s fourth largest economy by 2075.

Meanwhile, China and India are projected to be the first and second largest economies in the world, respectively, by 2075 and surpass the United States, which would take the third spot.

Goldman Sachs said China would overtake the US around 2035, while India should catch up by 2075.

“Second, while China and India are projected

to be larger than the US by 2075, our projections imply that the US will remain more than twice as rich as both,” Goldman Sachs said.

The Philippine economy expanded 7.6% yearon-year in 2022, better than the 5.7% growth recorded in the previous year.

This marked another year of growth, two years removed since the pandemic sent the domestic economy into lows unseen since World War II. Consumer spending proved to be a bright spot. n

PAGE 1 Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin

Malacañang photo

Dateline PhiliPPines

China proposes military drills with PH

‘Malaysian businessmen express interest in Maharlika’

by

KUALA LUMPUR – Several Malaysian businessmen have expressed interest in the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF), President Marcos said on Thursday, July 27.

Marcos noted that Malaysian investors are the “most careful” given their experience with their own sovereign wealth fund, referring to the multibillion-dollar 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) financial scandal.

“Their experience here is not going to be a detriment. In fact, it is a way for them – they are the most careful of all – they will not invest if they see this will be similar to what happened here,” the President told Filipino journalists at a press conference at the EQ Hotel here.

“So, as long as you can assure them that what their poor experience here – the terrible things that happened here – will not happen with our fund,” he said.

The President said he reassured Malaysian business leaders that Maharlika would be free from “undue political influence.”

“If you remember I am consistently saying it is going to be run professionally and without undue political influence. Of course, the government has an interest in the fund so we have a representative on the board, but on the day-to-day decisions as to what investments

would be made it is left to those financial managers that we will be putting into place,” he said.

“With that assurance, I think the assumption is that everyone has learned the lessons from what happened with one of their own sovereign funds – will do everything they can to avoid falling into the same situation,” the President added.

The 1MDB scandal was a large-scale corruption and money laundering conspiracy in 2015 that involved then-prime minister Najib Razak transferring over 2.67-billion Malaysian ringgit from Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund to his personal bank accounts.

Marcos signed on July 18 the Maharlika Investment Fund Act of 2023. It is expected to have at least P75 billion in paid-up capital this year, with P50 billion sourced from Land Bank of the Philippines and P25 billion from Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP).

The Fund will be invested in a wide range of assets, including foreign currencies, fixedincome instruments, domestic and foreign corporate bonds, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, real estate and high-impact infrastructure projects, and projects related to sustainable development. n

China has proposed to hold joint military exercises with the Philippines, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said on Thursday, July 27, in an apparent effort to convey its friendship with its smaller neighbor amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

The offer was put forward by Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian during the 96th People’s Liberation Army (PLA) anniversary celebration in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday night.

“There were no details yet. They just said, ‘Let’s do something together,’” Brawner told the Inquirer. The informal proposal has yet to be studied, he added.

The military ties between the two countries go a long way, said Brawner in his remarks as guest of honor at the event. He said the strong military relations were on full display when the PLA provided sniper rifles and ammunition that were used “intensively” during the Marawi siege, a five-month battle

between government troops and Islamic State-linked militants in 2017; donated various engineering equipment that has been used for developmental efforts nationwide; and donated the first vaccines for front-liners during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the AFP also sends military officers to China for training and education. “We will continue to send our officers to China if you continue to invite us,” he said.

The celebration at the fivestar luxury hotel struck a stark contrast to often tense encounters between the two parties at sea, where Chinese vessels are known to harass Philippine ships and encroach the country’s waters.

Beijing has militarized and continues to occupy parts of the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, or the waters within the country’s 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone.

Chinese coast guard or navy vessels routinely block or shadow Philippine ships

carrying out supply missions to islands in the disputed sea that host Philippine garrisons.

‘Steady progress’

However, the Chinese ambassador, in his remarks, said the PLA has been “a staunch force safeguarding world peace.” “The PLA is a peaceloving and peace-preserving army. The development and growth of the PLA is tantamount to development and growth of the forces of peace in the world,” he said.

Huang said the relations between the two militaries have made “steady progress” under the strategic guidance of President Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“China is willing to work with the Philippines to adhere to independence and good neighborliness, deepen practical cooperation in various fields, properly manage differences through consultation and dialogue, and ensure ChinaPhilippines relations remain healthy and move steadily into the future,” he said. n

Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. during press conference at the Philippine Army Officers Clubhouse in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, on February 15, 2023.

Photo from Ryan Leagogo/INQUIRER.net

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivers his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) at Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City on July 24, 2023.

Photos by KJ Rosales / The Philippine STAR

HeLen FLores Philstar.com

by HeLen FLores Philstar.com

THE “new Philippines” or Bagong Pilipinas is here, President Marcos said at the conclusion of his State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 24. As he had promised, his second SONA was a performance report on the “successes and challenges” in his first year in office.

It was a year during which the nation received a boost from the improvement in the COVID health situation, which allowed the lifting of pandemic restrictions and paved the way for a revival of the global economy. On the other hand, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine seriously disrupted global supply chains and caused fuel prices to surge, driving inflation that was worse than during the pandemic.

New Philippines Editorial

He warned that the days of agricultural smugglers and hoarders “are numbered,” and he would accept the resignation of rogue police officers, as he stressed that “we cannot tolerate corruption and incompetence in government.”

Still, the president sounded a positive note in summing up his first year, describing the state of the nation as “sound and improving” and marcoeconomic fundamentals strong. He reiterated his commitment to “build better and more” critical infrastructure, to continue expanding affordable housing, social safety nets and Kadiwa outlets. He set a target of 100 percent household electrification by the end of his term.

Renewing the commitment that no Filipino will be left behind in terms of education, the president said the K-10 program is being “recalibrated” and the jobs-skills mismatch is being rectified. Science and technology and “a culture of innovation” are being given priority.

Babe’s Eye View

BaBe Romualdez

THERE is absolutely no doubt that the intense competition between the United States and China in the Indo-Pacific highly impacts countries in the region and even beyond. The Philippines’ strategic location – which “sits squarely at the heart of the Indo-Pacific region” as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. described it – makes it a key stakeholder with a central role to play in the power dynamics in the region, with the U.S. and China engaged in a rivalry for economic, military, political and even technological supremacy.

Despite the escalating tension between the two giants with the rhetoric heating up once again, the U.S. and China “need each other,” analysts say, pointing to the continued economic cooperation between the rivals with bilateral trade reaching $690.6 billion in 2022, and the fact that their economies are complementary. While their battle for dominance continues, there are many indications that

Virtual Reality

T ony l opez

THERE are seven focus areas to remember about the presidency of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr. 13 months after assuming the highest position in the land. These seven will define the Marcos Jr. presidency over the next five years.

One, BBM united the country.

For the first time in over half a century, or since the first Marcos presidency, a president has been elected with a majority vote of the people.

Except in holdout areas like Bicol and the western Visayas, BBM won by large majorities, garnering a whopping 31.6 million votes – the largest vote by any president and the largest margin ever by a winning president over his nearest opponent. BBM’s unity call has been resonant throughout the country.

Two, BBM reconnected the Philippines to the world. He has scaled down the pivot to China, strengthened ties to old ally the United States, dealt substantially with Europe, while maintaining close and solid relations with old partners Japan

Addressing concerns about his pet project, the Maharlika Investment Fund, the president vowed transparency and accountability in its management.

He then enumerated 17 priority measures that he wants Congress to pass during its second regular session. These include the controversial reforms in the pension system of military and other uniformed personnel as well as new or higher taxes on singleuse plastics and digital services.

The president also wants to rationalize the mining fiscal regime and create a water resources management agency. He wants amendments in the road user’s tax, the Cooperative Code, the Fisheries Code and the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act. He wants a new government procurement law, Government Auditing Code and Philippine Immigration Act, and a law on “Tatak

Pinoy” and the blue economy. Other priorities are income classification of local government units as well as laws to ease tax payments and fight financial accounts scams.

That’s a long to-do list, for both the president and the legislature. At the start of the second regular session of the 19th Congress, everyone should hit the ground running. (Philstar.com)

Intense competition between US and China

both nations seek to mitigate the tension, such as the recent visits of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and State Secretary Antony Blinken to Beijing. Both U.S. president Joe Biden and Chinese president Xi Jinping also acknowledge the need to responsibly manage the competition between their countries as seen during the G-20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, with President Biden saying he absolutely believes “there need not be a new Cold War,” while President Xi recognizes they share an interest in “no confrontation and peaceful coexistence.”

Being pragmatic, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. knows that the Philippines has to squarely deal with the United States and China – both of which are our major trade partners – while keeping true to the commitment to uphold our national interest and defend our sovereignty. From the onset, he has adopted a balanced foreign policy that seeks to engage with traditional allies and pursue relationships with new partners – espousing the position that the Philippines is “a friend to all and an enemy

and the ASEAN. India should be the next target.

BBM is the most popular leader in the world today, with an approval rating of 82 percent, beating the over 76 percent of Narendra Modi of India.

Basking in that popularity, BBM accordingly has embarked on record-breaking foreign trips –14 by the last count, or one trip per month on average.

Three, he is modernizing the economy, opening it up to new players and easing the rules of engagement to allow for a more competitive business environment, one that promotes efficiencies, lowers costs, promotes quality of products and services and is more inclusive.

Relatedly, the Philippine economy is one of the strongest, if not the strongest, in the 10-nation ASEAN.

Quarterly, growth rate has been steady and firm – 7.2 percent in the third quarter 2022, 7.1 percent in the fourth quarter 2022 and 6.4 percent in the first quarter 2023. Compare those figures with the 20-year GDP average growth of 5.9 percent and you will see the difference.

The government, the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank all see GDP growth this year averaging 6 percent

to none.” But the reality, however, is that more than 80 percent of Filipinos remain distrustful of China, mainly because of what is happening in the West Philippine Sea, with Chinese Coast Guard vessels’ incessant harassment and obstruction of Philippine Coast Guard patrol vessels on routine supply and humanitarian missions, conducting dangerous maneuvers that could result in a collision. China built artificial islands within our territorial waters, resulting in the destruction of coral reefs and causing marine species to lose their habitat. Worse, the bullying and harassment by Chinese vessels have deprived Filipino fishermen of their livelihood.

A lot of Filipinos approve of the proposal by the Department of Education to include the West Philippine Sea and the maritime territorial issues in the Grade 10 curriculum, with a lesson on the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague to be included as well. Senator Risa Hontiveros also filed a resolution to declare July 12 every year as the “National

West Philippine Sea Victory Day” to commemorate the 2016 PCA ruling that invalidated China’s sweeping claims over the South China Sea. The Department of Foreign Affairs also put up a microsite titled “Not One Inch” to document and commemorate the landmark PCA ruling, serving as a repository of information on the arbitral award and its contributions to the rule of law and peaceful settlement of disputes through the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and international law. As one high level government official told me, “If China would only leave our territorial waters alone, we would have an extremely better relationship with them than any other country, with them being our neighbor.”

The reality is – China’s harassment and bullying is the main cause of the animosity of 90 percent of Filipinos, making us turn to our treaty ally, the United States, as “trustworthy and reliable” – an ally that is undoubtedly aligned with the Philippines’ firm resolve to protect its sovereignty.

Not surprisingly, the meeting of former president Rodrigo Duterte with President Xi has elicited extreme anxiety and agitation among many Filipinos. But as President Marcos said, any new line of communication between China and the Philippines is welcome, more so if the discussion included the shadowing by Chinese vessels and other issues surrounding the West Philippine sea.

Clearly, China is looking for “microphones” – meaning personalities who are willing to speak out about their position, like former U.S. State Secretary Henry Kissinger, another “old friend” who also visited China recently. But there also seems to be an increased activity by paid bloggers, hackers and China sympathizers out to discredit personalities who consistently speak out about China’s aggressive behavior.

But no matter which way it goes, the Philippines will remain focused on engaging with China because it is in our mutual interest to have good economic relations with our neighbor, just like what the Philippines is doing with the

Seven BBM deals

and higher in the coming years. The economy must produce 7 percent growth per year to enable the Philippines to reach high middle-income status of $4,500 per capita by the end of the Marcos II presidency. Most importantly, in financing the economic growth, for the first time, an administration is pooling state funds, earnings and savings in a meaningful way, through the Maharlika Investment Fund.

According to Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, there is immediate interest in investing among major funds such as Temasek, Japan Bank for International Cooperation in the first sovereign wealth fund of the Philippines.

The Bureau of Treasury, which heads drafting of the IRR, has expressed openness to allowing strategic partners from the start through IRR provisions – reducing the needed government capital infusion. Listing in stock exchange will happen down the line, Salceda predicts, thus unlocking awesome financial values.

Four, Build Build More.

BBM is keen to expand the country’s stock of infrastructure on a scale and vision never before seen, with annual infra spending exceeding P1 trillion

or more than 5 percent of GDP. Total infra spending in six years of BBM – P9 trillion, double the P4.5 trillion of president Duterte. BBM’s father, Ferdinand Marcos Sr., built more infra than all the previous presidents before him.

For the first time in history, Metro Manila will have more airports than it probably needs in the next half century – a rehabilitated Manila International Airport or NAIA, a new Manila International Airport in Bulacan by San Miguel Corporation, Sangley Airport by the Henry Sy family and the government-built Clark International Airport that is now run by the Gokongwei and Aboitiz families.

Five, BBM has completed the emancipation of agrarian reform farmers. Marcos I freed farmers from centuries of bondage to the land they never had hoped before of owning. Marcos II completes that emancipation by freeing agrarian reform farmers from P58 billion of unpaid debts.

According to Rep. Salceda, the New Agrarian Emancipation Act condones P58.125 billion, benefiting 654,000 agrarian reform beneficiaries and involving a total of 1.18 million hectares of awarded lands. With

estate tax amnesty until 2025, and LGUs encouraged to do RPT amnesty.

Also, some 52,000 hectares of unused government lands will be distributed to farmers.

Six, BBM is keen on climate change adaptation and mitigation. He knows fully well that the Philippines is among the top three countries to be harmed by a climate gone berserk.

Seven, digitalization is the new mantra. It is the gateway to genuine inclusion.

As to worries about the socalled P14-trillion Philippine debt, Salceda says debt is actually under control. Both the US and Singapore have more debt to GDP (exceeding 100 percent) than the Philippines (63 percent of GDP).

Assures Salceda: “Debt figures have remained in line with the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework, although the change in external debt has nearly equaled change in domestic debt, highly unusual, due to Fed rate hikes and the depreciation of the peso versus the dollar.”

Finally, Salceda offers insights (from Wharton) on what makes a president great:

1. History rewards the risktakers.

2. A president who actively

U.S. We just hope that those who profess love of country or who may have personal ill feelings about the United States or China – regardless of whether they are more inclined to favor one country over the other – what is important is to remember that deep inside, he or she is a Filipino, and will think long term on the effects of his or her actions one way or another.

One thing is certain: I know for a fact that PBBM may have some issues with the United States –most especially stemming from what happened in the past –but he has undoubtedly made it clear that as the president, he will never allow whatever personal feelings or issues he may have to cloud his sworn duty to defend and preserve the best interest of the Republic and the Filipino people. (Philstar. com)

* * *

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

* * * babeseyeview@gmail.com

campaigns for his historical place is engaged in a selfdefeating exercise.

3. There is no single theory of presidential success.

4. Presidents can only be understood within the context, conventions and limitations of their time.

5. If presidents are governed by any law beyond the Constitution, it is the law of unintended consequences.

6. Presidential power, although awesome on paper, is based largely on moral authority.

7. The president requires a talent for making useful enemies.

8. Every great president marches to the beat of his own drum.

9. The challenge posed by any crisis is equaled by the opportunity for leaders to forge an emotional bond with the people they lead to gain moral authority and expanded powers.

10. Greatness, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. (Philstar.com)

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

* * * Email: biznewsasia@gmail.com

Luzon dam levels up, thanks to ‘Egay’ rains

Philstar.com

DAGUPAN CITY—While heavy and continuous rains dumped by Typhoon “Egay” (international name: Doksuri) triggered widespread flooding and landslides in northern Luzon this week, the weather disturbance also helped improve the water levels in major dams in four provinces.

Administrators of the Angat Dam in Bulacan, San Roque Dam in Pangasinan, Binga and Ambuklao Dams in Benguet, and Magat Dam in Isabela said water elevations rose on Thursday, July 27 due to the incessant rains brought by Egay, which continued to enhance the southwest monsoon, or “habagat,” even as it was already out of the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Thursday.

The level of San Roque Dam in San Manuel town increased by more than 10 meters in the last 24 hours, according to the San Roque Power Corp., which operates the reservoir.

Data showed that the dam’s elevation was at 238.25 meters above sea level (masl) at 6 a.m. on Wednesday but it increased to 248.83 masl by 11 a.m. on Thursday.

The spilling level of the multipurpose dam is at 280 masl, leaving around 30 meters more before the spilling gates are opened.

San Roque Dam catches water from Benguet’s Ambuklao and Binga dams, both of which have

opened gates and released water. Ambuklao and Binga continued to discharge rainwater to ease pressure on their reservoirs.

Ambuklao’s reservoir in Bokod town was at 751.30 masl on Thursday, up from 746.43 masl on Wednesday when Egay unleashed its fury over Luzon. The dam’s normal high water level is 752 masl.

Angat situation

In Bulacan, the elevation of Angat Dam also rose by more than 3 m due to the continuous rains since Wednesday, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office.

Angat Dam supplies 97 percent of the water requirements of Metro Manila and the irrigation needs of Bulacan and Pampanga farmers.

The dam’s level began to drop below the 180 masl operating level on July 8 amid the El Niño phenomenon being experienced in the country.

The rising level at San Roque has elated farmers in Pangasinan, said Oftociano Manalo, president of the farmers’ group Mannalon, Mag-uuma, Magbabaul, Magsasaka ng Pilipinas, noting that this would help irrigate their rice plants.

Manalo said the National Irrigation Administration had also opened the dam’s irrigation gates. The torrential rains also raised the level of the Sinocalan-Pantal River in Pangasinan to a critical mark, causing the major tributary in the province to burst its bank.

The water level of the section of the Sinocalan-Pantalan River in Calasiao town reached 7.8 meters, above the normal level of 7 m.

Many areas in Calasiao were already submerged in floodwater due to the heavy downpour at the height of Egay, according to the municipal disaster risk reduction and management council.

In Isabela, the water level of Magat Dam reached 170.58 masl on Thursday afternoon, according to the National Irrigation Administration-Magat River Integrated Irrigation System.

It was a significant increase from 162.69 masl on Tuesday morning or before Egay pummeled the Cagayan Valley region. The dam’s elevation on Thursday, however, was still below its 193 masl spilling level.

Magat Dam supplies irrigation to 88,000 hectares of rice farms in the province and nearby areas.

In Olongapo City, two rivers reached a critical level on Thursday due to nonstop rains.

Data from the city disaster risk reduction and management office (CDRRMO) showed that as of 12:39 p.m., water levels underneath the Mabayuan and Sta. Rita bridges were at 2.56 m.

According to the CDDRMO, the critical mark for rivers in the city is between 2.50 and 2.99 m. n

Unesco wants global ban on cell phones in schools

by CatHerine s. VaLente ManilaTimes.net

MANILA, Philippines — A new United Nations report raised concerns about the excessive use of smartphones and the over-use impacts on learning, calling for the gadgets to be banned in schools worldwide. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) global report on technology in education highlights the lack of appropriate governance and regulation.

Titled “Technology in education: A tool on whose terms?,” the 2023 Global Education Monitoring Report calls for appropriate use of technology in education and emphasizes the need for a “human-centered vision” where digital technology serves as a tool rather than taking precedence.

According to the report, digital technology has changed but not transformed education.

UNESCO’s Director of Global Education Monitoring, Manos Antoninis warned of the danger of data leaks in educational tech, as only 16

Salamat sa Pagtatanim sa Akin!

Daisy Succulent Sam

Tinutulungan

Pagandahin ang inyong tanawin

ng enerhiya, maprotektahan ang ating mga likas na yaman, at makalikha ng magagandang panlabas na mga lugar ng pamumuhay.

Sunny

percent of countries guarantee data privacy in the classroom, by law.

“We know that vast amounts of data are being used without the appropriate regulation, so this data ends up being used for other non-educational purposes, commercial purposes and that’s of course a violation of rights that needs to be regulated,” Antoninis said.

The UNESCO report also highlights the disparities created by digital learning. During the COVID-19 pandemic, half a billion students worldwide were left out due to the shift to online-only learning with an imbalance in online resources favoring Europe and North America.

UNESCO is urging countries to set their own standards for the way technology is designed and used in education such that it never replaces in-person, teacher-led instruction and supports the shared objective of quality education for all.

“The digital revolution holds immeasurable potential but, just as warnings have been voiced for how it should be regulated in society, similar attention must be paid to the way it is used in education,”

warned UNESCO DirectorGeneral Audrey Azoulay.

In contrast to digital technology’s potential to improve education, there are also risks of information and communication technologies in education, which are often ignored by research and evaluations.

The report said several countries are banning the use of mobile telephones or other technology in schools. Globally, less than a quarter of countries have laws or policies banning the use of telephones in school. Some ban the use of specific applications because of privacy concerns.

Technology, the report said, has fundamentally changed the way in which children exercise and realize their rights, including their rights to both education and privacy.

“While under certain conditions the use of technology in education can enhance children’s opportunity to learn, it can also put their physical and mental integrity, privacy, and dignity at risk,” it said.

UNESCO said policymaakers should listen to the voices of children so that their rights are protected and safeguarded during their online activities.

Samantalahin ang Ang proyektong ito ay pinopondohan sa ilalim ng Batas 2006 sa Ligtas na Inuming Tubig, Kalidad at Tustos ng Tubig, Kontrol sa Baha, Proteksyon ng Ilog at Baybayin, na pinamamahalaan ng Departamento ng Mapagkukunan ng Tubig, Estado ng California.

pagsusuri sa paggamit ng tubig sa mismong Libreng mga video tungkol sa pagpapaganda ng tanawin kapag kinailangan Mga gabay kaugnay ng kung paanong magpaganda ng tanawin Mga template patungkol sa disenyo ng tanawin Mga gabay sa pagtatanim

Photo from Pixabay

SWAMPED. Low-lying areas of Barangay San Nicolas in Bulakan town, Bulacan province, are flooded due to intense rains dumped by Typhoon “Egay.” The heavy downpour helped raise the level of Angat Dam, where Metro Manila sources its water.

Photo from Carmela Reyes-Eestrope

ANNOUNCEMENT EMPLOYMENT

SD#0258

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Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and services for:

EXTERIOR PAINTING AT DANA MIDDLE SCHOOL AND DEWEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, AUGUST 3, 2023, outside the main office of Dewey Elementary School, 3251 Rosecrans St, San Diego, CA 92110. Upon completion, all contractors will proceed to Dana Middle School, 1775 Chatsworth Blvd, San Diego, CA 92106. Contractors and subcontractors must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s new online Planroom at sandiegousdplans. com. All bids must be received electronically at or before 1:00 p.m. on AUGUST 17, 2023 Firms interested in submitting a bid package must go to tinyurl.com/SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CP24-0221-52-00-00 Exterior painting at Dana Middle School and Dewey Elementary School. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is between $515,000 and $575,000. This is not a PSA project, however this project does require prequalification of all painters. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: B or C-33. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, Linda Hippe, Director, Purchasing and Contracts, Strategic Sourcing and Contracts Department CP240221-52-00-00.

FOR RENT LEGAL SERVICES

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Llama Kitchen located at 406 N. Hickory St., Apt 9, Escondido, CA 92025.

Registrant: Antonio O. Passano, 406 N. Hickory St., Apt 9, Escondido, CA 92025.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT

BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 07/12/2023.

Signature: Antonio O. Passano. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/12/2023. AJ 1216 07/21, 07/28, 08/04, and 08/11/2023. AJSD 1216

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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9014665 REICROCHET located at 1548 Ravina Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91913.

Registrant: Maricel Campollo, 1548 Ravina Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91913. This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 02/01/2023.

Signature: Maricel Campollo. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/13/2023. AJ 1217 07/21, 0728, 08/04, and 08/11/2023. AJSD 1217

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NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9013758

The Good Look Photo Booth located at 1094 Camino Levante, Chula VIsta, CA 91913.

Registrant: Ramir Morales, 1094 Camino Levante, Chula VIsta, CA 91913. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 06/29/2023.

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NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9013028 Green Lotus Organic Farm located at 2736 Arland Road, Carlsbad, CA 92008. Registrant: Green Lotus Organic Farm, 2736 Arland Road, Carlsbad, CA 92008. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/20/2023.

Signature: Michelle Lin. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 06/20/2023. AJ 1218 07/21, 07/28, 08/04, and 08/11/2023.

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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9013695

Papis Birria located at 2924 Ridgeway Dr., National City, 91950. Registrant: Papis Birria LLC, 2924 Ridgeway Dr., National City, 91950. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 06/28/2023.

Signature: Ivan Cruz. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 06/28/2023. AJ 1214 07/14, 07/21, 07/28, and 08/04/2023. AJSD 1214

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NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9014986

San Diego Rustic located at 34A 17th St. East, National City, CA 91950.

Registrant: Carl Frank, 6261 Via Regla, San Diego, CA 92112. This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF07/15/2019.

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TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

Petitioner CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL CALABRESE filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

a. CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL CALABRESE to Christopher Michael Calabrese. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

CASE NUMBER: 37-2023-00030999-CU-PT-CTL

ALL-FILIPINO CAST MAKES BROADWAY HISTORY

‘Here Lies Love’ stirs emotions, controversy

By MoMar g. Visaya

In a groundbreaking and historic feat, Broadway is witnessing the rise of “Here Lies Love,” an immersive theater spectacle that boldly shatters boundaries with an all-Filipino cast. With each captivating performance, this musical delves into the complex story of Imelda Marcos, the former First Lady of the Philippines, and the tumultuous events surrounding the 1986 People Power Revolution.

From its powerful portrayals to its innovative immersive format, “Here Lies Love” is not just another Broadway production; it is a trailblazer that proudly embraces Filipino talent and history, making waves and etching its name in the annals of theater history.

With its innovative approach to immersive theater, the show transports spectators into the glitzy world of the 1980s, bringing them face-to-face with historical figures and heart-pounding moments. Led by a stellar all-Filipino cast, including the legendary Lea Salonga, this production has become a milestone in Filipino representation on Broadway and a celebration of a rich cultural heritage.

The show stands as a daring and innovative musical, drawing inspiration from the controversial life of Imelda Marcos, the wife of former Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos. While the show possesses moments of brilliance and creativity, it also grapples with a few shortcomings that hinder its overall impact.

David Byrne, the mastermind behind “Here Lies Love,” rightfully marvels at the show’s continued relevance nearly a decade after its off-Broadway premiere. “I had no idea that the politics would be so relevant not just in the Philippines, but all around the world, including this country,” he told AP.

With music by Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award-winning artists Byrne and Fatboy Slim, this immersive production invites the audience to become part of the show’s captivating narrative.

Under the direction of Tony Award winner Alex Timbers and featuring choreography by Olivier Award nominee Annie-B Parson, “Here Lies Love” transforms the Broadway Theatre into a vibrant dance club where the story of Imelda Marcos unfolds. The audience is given a range of standing and seating options that allow them to experience the performance from various perspectives, from the dance floor to elevated seating areas.

The production’s immersive concept, which envelops the audience in the world of the Marcos regime, is a commendable attempt at engaging theater-goers uniquely and dynamically. Props to set designer David Korins who transformed the orchestra of the Broadway Theater into a discotheque complete with ledges and a giant 42-inch mirror ball. The use of satellite stages, a 360-degree lighting design, and video screens add an interactive dimension that captivates the audience and

fosters a sense of connection to the characters’ lives.

However, the musical’s bold take on some of the crucial historical events, while compelling, blurs the lines between fact and fiction. This has left some viewers questioning the accuracy of the purported romantic relationship between Benigno Aquino and Imelda Romualdez as graphics on the screen showed “Imelda’s boyfriend” when Aquino’s character was introduced. This creative license can be divisive, as some audience members may prefer a more historically accurate portrayal, while others appreciate the artistic interpretation.

The cast’s performances are nothing short of extraordinary.

Lea Salonga’s portrayal of Aurora Aquino, the mother of opposition leader Ninoy Aquino, is nothing short of sublime and an absolute show-stopper. Her remarkable vocal prowess and emotive delivery breathe life into the character, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

Salonga’s talent shines brightly, and her presence on stage is truly a high point of the production.

On the evening we watched, the audience exploded the moment Salonga emerged onstage. Kudos to the lighting director (and the moving stage) for creating an appropriately haunting and moving atmosphere.

Although her one-month stint in the production is set to conclude on August 13, the producers have hinted at even more surprises in store, including the possibility of enlisting other eminent stars from the Philippines to offer their unique interpretations of the poignant ballad, “Just Ask the Flowers,” performed by the character Dona Aurora Aquino at her son’s funeral.

Among the many unforgettable moments in the show, one particular scene stands out, signaling the start of the Marcoses’ fall from power.

As Arielle Jacobs retakes the spotlight, belting out “Why Don’t You Love Me” from the elevated mezzanine level, the rest of the cast led by Salonga gathers below, flashing the iconic Laban sign—a powerful visual representation of resistance and unity. This back-to-back

juxtaposition of performances amplifies the impact of the narrative and further solidifies the show’s immersive nature, delivering a powerful one-two punch.

Jacobs, in the role of Imelda Marcos, definitely gives her all, leaving a lasting impact with her powerful vocals and emotional delivery. The start of the musical traced Imelda’s humble beginnings as a barrio lass who slowly evolved into a resolute and formidable figure – a steel butterfly if you will, as the show progressed. She was captivating in both.

Her crisp delivery of “Put*ng ina mo!” while degrading her husband’s genital size made Filipinos in the house roar as she sang “It takes a woman to do a man’s job” when she found out about his affair with American actress Dovie Beams.

The performances by Conrad Ricamora, Jose Llana, and Melody Butiu, who are part of the original cast at The Public Theater from a decade ago, showcase growth and maturity in their nuanced performances. Ricamora and Butiu reprised these roles at the Seattle Repertory in 2017, with Filipino singer Mark Bautista stepping in as Ferdinand.

Having had the privilege of witnessing their earlier portrayals, I didn’t think they could top their performances back then. However, the passage of time and the wealth of experiences gathered over the last decade seem to have breathed new life into their characters, rendering them more vivid and compelling than ever before.

Llana’s depiction of his role exuded a newfound sternness and a palpable sense of menace, particularly evident in the first half of the production. As the ailing despot, he masterfully embodied the essence of a once-powerful figure whose prime years have now waned. His rendition of “Perfect Hand” hit all the right notes, resonating with precision and conviction.

Ricamora, on the other hand, delivered a bouncy rendition of “Child of the Philippines,” pouring his soul into the fastpaced number. Despite its rapid tempo, his emotive performance left a lasting impact.

The costumes, designed by Tony Award-winner Clint Ramos, are a visual feast.

The lavish and intricate outfits, especially those worn by Imelda Marcos, successfully transport the audience to the glamour and opulence of the era. Ramos’ attention to detail is praiseworthy, and his contribution significantly enhances the overall visual appeal of the musical as he masterfully showcased the former First Lady’s glamorous terno dresses and humble dasters from her early days in Tacloban.

The dichotomy between Ferdinand Marcos and Ninoy Aquino is subtly portrayed through their distinct costumes, with the dictator dressed in black and the opposition senator garbed in white.

The show’s immersive nature means the audience members are always in the thick of the action, as they witness the drama unfold around them. Whether seated ring-side, in the front or rear mezzanine, or dancing among the 300 people on the main level, every spectator is engaged and becomes part of the story.

And this is where experiencing FOMO comes in.

Audience members find themselves torn between the excitement of the dancefloor and the curiosity about the view from the mezzanine. Those dancing on the main level can’t help but wonder if they are missing out on a different perspective, while those watching from the mezzanine can’t help but envy the infectious energy and fun happening on the dancefloor. The show’s unique format leaves viewers pondering which vantage point offers the bigger picture of this groundbreaking production.

Before the resident DJ Moises Villarama sang “God Draws Straight” with the rest of the cast, he talked briefly about history repeating itself, telling the audience that Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. was elected as the president last year. There were scattered boos and hisses in the theater and it was broken by a solitary scream of a woman who said, “He’s my president!”

As the applause continues to echo in the theater, “Here Lies Love” stands as a powerful testament to the talent, passion, and creativity of its cast and creators.

However, amidst the praise and accolades, a heated debate ensues about the show’s portrayal of Imelda Marcos and the controversial history of the Marcos dictatorship.

In a CBS interview, Elaine Quijano asked, “Some people think that in 2023, there should not be this kind of show devoted to a figure Imelda Marcos, what’s your response to that?’

“Oh goodness, gracious. It’s

great for audiences to look at it and learn from it because it’s still happening in other parts of the world. Our offering is, it’s happened to us but this is what happened in the end. Basically, it’s a story about how a people regained the power for themselves and it’s kind of an inspirational thing to think about if you look at it that way,” Salonga replied.

Some critics argue that the production may unintentionally glorify Imelda and romanticize the heinous acts committed during their oppressive rule. They claim that the show, created by a white man, offers a sanitized version of the dictatorship’s history, attempting to humanize a figure known for corruption and violence.

These critics question whether the show trivializes the crimes committed by the Marcoses and overlooks the suffering they inflicted upon countless Filipinos. They worry that the artistic interpretation u PAGE 10

The Cast of Here Lies Love in the Broadway Theatre

Photo by Billy Bustamante, Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman (2023)

Lea Salonga (Aurora Aquino) and the cast of Here Lies Love

Photo by Billy Bustamante, Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman (2023)

Conrad Ricamora (Ninoy Aquino) and Arielle Jacobs (Imelda Marcos)

Photo by Billy Bustamante, Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman (2023)

All-Filipino Cast Makes Broadway...

may inadvertently erase the painful realities endured by the victims of the regime. It raises the question of whether the pursuit of art and entertainment should come at the expense of historical accuracy and sensitivity.

On the other hand, the producers firmly assert that “Here Lies Love” is far from glorifying the Marcoses; instead, they argue that the show takes a firm stance against their actions and serves as a reminder of the dark chapter in Philippine history. They contend that the immersive experience allows audiences to connect emotionally with the narrative, evoking empathy and understanding of the consequences of dictatorship.

The show has added an insert to the Playbill showing a historical overview from the time the United States colonized the Philippines in 1898 to the People Power Revolution in 1986 when the Marcoses were airlifted out of the country by U.S. Marines.

As the controversy rages on, the show continues to make waves, breaking boundaries with its all-Filipino cast and confronting the complexities of history headon. The production’s impact is undeniable, sparking essential conversations about the intersection of art, history, and the responsibility of storytelling.

Ultimately, we believe it is up to each audience member to grapple with the layers

of meaning in the show and draw their conclusions. As theatergoers leave the performance, they carry with them not only a powerful theatrical experience but also profound questions about the portrayal of history on stage.

The ongoing debate surrounding its portrayal of Imelda and the dark era of the Marcos dictatorship highlights the significance of presenting history responsibly while delving into the complexities of human nature.

“Here Lies Love” is doing its part, serving as a poignant reminder that theater has the unique capacity to ignite conversations, challenge perceptions, and keep the collective memory of a nation

alive. As the curtains fall on this groundbreaking production, its echoes will linger, urging us all to confront the past and reflect on the present.

It is an audacious and imaginative musical that fearlessly delves into the controversial life of Imelda Marcos. Its immersive concept and innovative staging elevate the theatrical experience, allowing the audience to be part of the historical narrative.

Salonga’s exceptional performance, along with the stunning costume design, contribute to the musical’s high points making the show a commendable and bold effort to bring an important chapter of Philippine history to the Broadway stage. n

Jeannie Mai Jenkins and Cheryl Burke to Host Miss Filipina International 2023

Popular TV personalities, Jeannie Mai Jenkins (“The Real”) and Cheryl Burke (“Dancing with the Stars”), will host the 10th Miss Filipina International (MFI) on August 5, 2023, at the International Ballroom of The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California.

Mario Lopez of “Access TV” will join as a special guest presenter along with the reigning Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee as cohost.

The exciting news was announced by Worldwide Media Entertainment Corp., headed by Geoffrey Jimenez, chairman of the board of directors, the new owner of MFI which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. He is also the executive producer of the MFI show.

“We are thrilled and honored to have Jeannie, Cheryl and Mario join us,” Jimenez said. “They will add excitement and glamour to the Miss Filipina International pageant. Jeannie’s experience as a host of top prestigious pageants like Miss Universe and Miss USA is unparalleled. And Cheryl’s record-breaking 26 seasons with ‘Dancing with the Stars’ is an outstanding experience which she will bring to a live show like the Miss Filipina International.”

A community leader and arts

On Medicaid Redetermination

RECENTLY, NAPCA’s Senior Assistance Center has received several calls regarding Medicaid Redetermination. We want to share some of the questions in this month’s column.

What does Medicaid Redetermination mean?

Prior to the pandemic, states were required to renew coverage for people with Medicaid coverage at least once a year and to disenroll individuals who no longer qualified for coverage.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress acted to ensure Americans did not lose access to critical health care by preventing states from terminating a person’s Medicaid coverage, even if they no longer qualified. Now that the PHE (public health emergency) has ended, federal law requires states to restart regular Medicaid renewals. This means that over the next 12 months, everyone with health care coverage through Medicaid will renew their coverage.

What do I need to do for Medicaid Redetermination?

For people with Medicaid coverage:

• UPDATE your contact information with your state Medicaid agency.

• RESPOND to the Medicaid renewal form when it arrives to keep your coverage.

• CONSIDER OTHER

COVERAGE OPTIONS: If you are no longer eligible for Medicaid, check if you can get coverage through your employer, through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace at HealthCare. gov, or through Medicare.

What do I do if I lose Medicaid coverage though the Redetermination process?

If you are no longer eligible for Medicaid, you can transition to another form of health coverage, such as the Affordable Care Act Marketplace, employersponsored coverage, or Medicare. You can re-apply for Medicaid to find if you still qualify. Some options open

their own Special Enrollment Period and Signup timeframe window. Please contact us if you have any questions about the SEP.

I am currently enrolled in Medicaid in California.

Recently I got a part-time job, and I am worried that I may lose my Medicaid coverage after the Medicaid Redetermination process. What is the threshold for Medicaid in California?

Medicaid is a State run program for certain people with limited income and assets. It means each state has its own eligibility. In the case of CA, you are still eligible for Medicaid, • if you are single and your income is below $1,677 per month, or • if you are a married couple and your household income is below $2,268 per month.

If you are 65 or older, you have an asset limit as well that is $130,000 for single or $195,000 for couple.

Please contact us to get the information about Medicaid eligibility or contact your local Medicaid office to check your Medicaid eligibility in the state where you live.

The National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of AANHPI older adults and their families. We operate a NAPCA Senior Assistance Center for Older Adults and Caregivers and is available in 5 different languages. If you have additional questions on Medicare, Medicaid, Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace, Social Security Retirement Benefit, Supplemental Security Income, or COVID/ Flu vaccination, there are 3 ways you can reach us today. Call our Senior Assistance Center at (English) 1-800336-2722; send us an email at askNAPCA@napca.org, or you can mail to us at NAPCA Senior Assistance Center, 1511 3rd Avenue, Suite 914, Seattle, WA 98101. n

Dancing with the Stars alum, podcaster and mental health advocate Cheryl Burke

Photo by Sthanlee B. Mirador

Reality TV/talk show host, documentary executive producer and travel/ lifestyle series creator Jeannie Mai Jenkins

Access Hollywood co-host and bestselling author Mario Lopez

MFI executive producer Geoffrey Jimenez

Photo by Ken Hugh

Jeannie Mai Jenkins...

patron, Jimenez is passionately committed to elevating MFI as a showcase of the Philippines’ rich legacy in arts and culture and the beauty and talent of Filipina women. Proud of his immigrant roots, Jimenez staunchly supports Filipino talents in various fields, especially in entertainment.

Under Jimenez’s stewardship, MFI is the first ever Filipina beauty pageant to be held at The Beverly Hilton’s International Ballroom, the prestigious venue of the Golden Globe Awards, the Academy nominees luncheon, Clive Davis’ pre-Grammy party and other high-profile events.

It’s the first time that the two Daytime Emmy Award winners, Lopez and Mai Jenkins, who have hosted Miss Universe in separate years, and Primetime Emmy nominee Burke, will be together at a Filipina beauty pageant. Forty candidates, all beautiful Filipinas, are vying for Miss Filipina International 2023.

Mai Jenkins, who hosted Miss Universe 2023 in January this year, is the host of “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation,” executive producer of the anti-sextrafficking documentary, “Stopping Traffic” and creator of the travel and lifestyle series, “Hello Hunnay.” Previously, she co-hosted the Daytime Emmy-winning talk show, “The Real,” for eight seasons.

Burke is a secondgeneration Filipina American TV personality, podcaster and mental health advocate. She is best known for the hit ABC reality show, “Dancing with the Stars.” Additional projects for Burke included her taking over “Dance Moms.” She has her third podcast, titled “Sex, Lies and Spray Tans,” with iHeart Media which will launch on August 21.

Lopez, is a New York Times bestselling author, nationally syndicated iHeart Radio host and co-host of NBC’s “Access Hollywood.”

Dee, the reigning Miss Universe Philippines, is the show’s special guest co-host. She is an actress, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate of various causes.

Lisa Lew, multiple Daytime Emmy winner (“Cristina’s Court” and “Judge Judy” and

County launches ‘Leave No Veteran Homeless’ initiative

the groundbreaking “Last Shot with Judge Gunn”) is the producer of MFI. Joseph Carolei, Daytime Emmywinning director of “The Talk” and the 43rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, will direct MFI, which promises to be one of the best and most thrilling live events this year.

On the August 5 black tie coronation night, the 40 MFI candidates, representing various states across America and several countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom and the Philippines, will compete in the pageant which salutes the Filipina – multi-faceted, talented, versatile and confident.

The candidates were revealed in a press presentation at the Oasis Terrace of The Beverly Hilton.

In the coronation night to be presided over by Mai Jenkins and Burke, a celebration of the Philippines and its people, rich culture, arts and fashion, the 40 women will vie for these titles: Miss Filipina International; Miss Tourism; First Runner-up; Second Runner-up; and Third Runner-up.

MFI is a Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) franchise, in partnership with Jonas Gaffud’s Empire Philippines.

Three MFI winners will be eligible to compete next year in Miss Universe Philippines while two MFI winners will vie in The Miss Philippines pageant.

In addition to the previously announced top prize of a BMW 2 Series car, the winner will also receive a $10,000 gift certificate from iSkin Beverly Hills. Other prizes include $5,000 cash and a $10,000 gift certificate from iSkin for Miss Tourism; a $2,500 cash prize and a $5,000 gift certificate from iSkin for each of the First, Second and Third Runnersup. The winner will also get 20 restaurant-quality healthy meals from FlexPro Meals and a month’s supply of Celsius Beverages.

MFI’s sponsors include Philippine Airlines, BMW, Jojo Bragais Shoes, Narcisa Pheres (MFI crown designer), iSkin Beverly Hills, Biaggi Luggage, Bell Beachwear, The Beverly Hilton, See’s Candies Manila, FlexPro Meals and Celsius Beverages. n

THE County of San Diego has teamed up with regional, state and federal partners to develop a plan to achieve functional zero for veteran homelessness in the county.

The launch of the Leave No Veteran Homeless initiative comes in response to a unanimous vote by the County Board of Supervisors on February 7 affirming the desire to lead a regional effort to house veterans across San Diego County.

“This will be a lifeline to many of our veterans who are experiencing homelessness,” San Diego County Board Chairwoman Nora Vargas said.

“In February I was very proud to bring this policy to the County Board of Supervisors to create a plan to end regional veterans’ homelessness.”

The new strategic plan aims to achieve “Functional Zero”, a milestone associated with the national Built for Zero movement. The milestone is defined as a time when veteran homelessness is rare, brief and non-reoccurring. At functional zero every unhoused veteran has the opportunity and support to gain permanent housing.

“We’ve seen success in the built for zero model across the country and here in California,” said Dr. Eric McDonald, interim director of County of San Diego’s Health and Human Services Agency. “We are committed to getting our veterans the help they need to get back on their feet and provide the opportunity for them to live well.”

While many veterans experiencing homelessness receive case management and rental assistance they report struggling to compete in the tight rental market. To help address

this challenge, landlords with vacant units are encouraged to register their interest in providing a rental to a homeless veteran at Help End Homelessness – 211 (211sandiego.org). To learn more about incentives for landlords and other resources available to veterans searching for housing visit NoVeteranHomeless.org.

The county is also encouraging municipalities to allocate resources to support the outreach, engagement, shelter and permanent housing. This could include contributing to the regional Flexible Housing Pool to help veterans secure permanent housing.

And community members can support these efforts by learning more about the resources available to veterans, advocating to your landlord to rent to a voucher-holding veteran and encouraging their city to support the Flexible Housing Pool.

Led by the county’s Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities, the initiative leverages coordinated and collaborative regional, state and federal partnerships to maximize available resources. The collaborative effort includes County departments like the Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities, Office Military and Veterans Affairs, Housing and Community Development Services along with regional, state and federal partners like the Regional Task Force on Homelessness, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, San Diego Housing Commission, City of San Diego, City of Oceanside, Veterans Village of San Diego, 211, People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), Adjoin, San Diego Veterans Coalition,

Courage to Call, Interfaith Community Services, Brilliant Corners and others.

“Together we are simplifying pathways to housing, leveraging resources and collecting data to ensure we reach functional zero”, said Tamera Kohler, CEO of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH). “To do that we need the help of our community, especially landlords who can open their doors to our heroes.”

“With initiatives such as this dedicated community effort, we will continue to move ahead in addressing this pressing need and challenge,” said Dr. Frank Pearson, CEO and director of the VA San Diego Health Care.

“We look forward to working with dozens of partners to achieve functional zero veteran homelessness throughout San Diego and the surrounding area.”

The VA helped Veteran Fred Otto find housing, with support from the county’s Housing and Community Development Services.

“The joy of knowing that if other homeless veterans, if they want it, they can get help,” Otto said. “My cats and I are very happy and thankful to the VA and to the housing commission for giving me my life.”

Together the partners developed a comprehensive framework that establishes

desired outcomes and the key actions needed to achieve them. This initiative is also closely aligned with the county’s core values of integrity, belonging, excellence, access, sustainability, and equity and supports county’s Framework for Ending Homelessness.

In the last few years, the region has seen success in reducing veteran homelessness, with the number of unhoused veterans dropping 27% from 2020-2022, according to RTFH. Despite these successes, the county and its partners recognize that a more comprehensive and urgent approach is needed to accomplish the goal of ending veteran homelessness.

Despite their dedication to our country, many veterans experience challenges and difficulties, like processing trauma from their time in service and re-adjusting to society.

You can join the county and its partners in these efforts in many ways. Learn more at NoVeteranHomeless.org. Get involved or learn more on the Leave No Veteran Homeless Engage San Diego County page (https://engage. sandiegocounty.gov/leave-noveteran-homeless).

(Cassie N. Saunders/County of San Diego Communications Office)

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria speaks during the launch of the “Leave No Veteran Homeless” initiative. Screengrab from YouTube video