080322 - Southern California Midweek Edition

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From the Front Page

California declares state of...

PAGE 1 leveraging our robust testing, contact tracing and community partnerships strengthened during the pandemic to ensure that those most at risk are our focus for vaccines, treatment and outreach,” said Newsom. “We’ll continue to work with the federal government to secure more vaccines, raise awareness about reducing risk, and stand with the LGBTQ community fighting stigmatization.”

To expand vaccination efforts, the proclamation enables Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel to administer monkeypox vaccines that are approved by the FDA, similar to the statutory authorization recently enacted for pharmacists to administer vaccines.

The state’s response to monkeypox builds on the infrastructure developed during the COVID-19 pandemic to deploy vaccine clinics and ensure inclusive and targeted outreach in partnership with local and community-based organizations.

Last month, California public health leaders urged federal partners to make more vaccine

doses available to the state as quickly as possible so that the state can expand eligibility to both confirmed and probable exposures, as well as to individuals who are at high-risk of contracting the virus. To date, the state has distributed more than 25,000 vaccine doses and will make additional allocations in the coming days and weeks.

Los Angeles County has received a separate allocation of vaccine.

In all, the state has received more than 61,000 doses.

The state is also supporting overall vaccination efforts in collaboration with locals, including helping provide staffing and mobile clinics.

The state allocates doses to local health departments based on a number of factors, including the number of reported monkeypox cases in an area and estimate of at-risk populations.

As of July 28, the state had expanded its testing capacity to process more than 1,000 tests a week. The state’s public health laboratory leaders have been working with local public health, academic, and commercial

laboratories to ensure testing capacity is increasingly available and coordinated with the public health response.

CDPH is also expanding treatment options. Access to the antiviral prescription drug tecovirimat (TPOXX) used to treat monkeypox is limited, but the treatment can now be administered at more than 30 facilities and providers across the state.

The state continues outreach and education efforts to inform Californians about monkeypox and ways to limit its spread.

The state has hosted multiple webinars for local health departments, communitybased organizations, and other health care providers and has attended various town halls and community meetings to speak DRAGON BOAT RACE: Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian and his wife watch the dragon dance performers during the Philippine-China Friendship with and hear from the public Dragon Boat Race at the Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach on Sunday, July 31. Dragon boat racing is a folk custom of China’s traditional Duan Wu PNA photo by Avito Dalan and local leaders. CDPH is also Festival or Dragon Boat Festival that has been developed into a modern international sport since the 1970s. scheduling listening sessions with the LGBTQ community.

CDPH is currently running paid ad campaigns on various digital media platforms to PAGE 1 promote awareness and engage Lakas–CMD is the political communities at higher risk of party founded by Ramos, contracting monkeypox. g together with Raul Manglapus.

“Hindi matatawaran ang naging pamana ni FVR sa bansa.

Sa pamamagitan ng kanyang pamumuno ay umahon ang said: “He just wants to make Pilipinas mula sa mga krisis na it very clear that he has been bumabalot sa bawat pilipino consistent in his position on the ng mga panahong iyon,” said ICC.” Revilla.

“No one should interfere with (FVR’s legacy to the country the domestic legal processes cannot be underestimated. of a sovereign state unless it Through his leadership, the Inquirer.net file photo is shown that we have a failed Philippines emerged from the Former President Fidel V. Ramos state or that our criminal justice crises that enveloped every penned by his close aide, Jojo recalled that when he joined the system has completely stopped Filipino at that time) Terencio that was published in 1992 presidential race, he was from working,” Roque said.

According to Revilla, Ramos’ 2021, Ramos said he considered fully aware of his duty to give Duterte ordered the country’s legacy is the “foundation upon the presidency as both an honor the people a “better quality of withdrawal from the Rome which later administrations have and a privilege that served as a life by building on the grains of Statute in March 2018, a month built upon,”transforming the feather to his cap, which started democracy.” after ICC chief prosecutor Fatou country from being “the sick with a career in the military.

“So many things have Bensouda announced that a man of Asia to the Tiger of the Ramos, in the book’s foreword, happened since then but I preliminary examination was Region.” added that the presidency is a have strong faith in the Filipino underway into the thousands people, our leaders and the “While the passing of our “matter of destiny.” of deaths in the Philippine Chairman Emeritus is a great loss “I totally agree. A person can country’s future. We continue government’s war-on-drugs to our Party, it does not compare plan or aspire to become one to aspire for a better life for all, campaign. to the loss of our country. He was all his or her life, but ultimately, and we will continue to work The withdrawal took effect a one of the best!” he added. the confluence of many things together to make it happen,” he year later.

Ramos, who was known — people, the current political said.

President Ferdinand as “FVR” served as the 12th milieu, events, chance, and the Ramos ended the foreword “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., president of the Philippines from candidates personality — will with his famous inspirational Duterte’s successor, said 1992 to 1998. bring the presidency to the quip: “Kaya ba natin ito? KayangMonday that the Philippines has Anointed One. Destiny,” Ramos kaya basta tayo ay sama-sama!”

‘Matter of destiny’ no intention of re-joining the (Can we do this? We can! If we Writing the foreword for the wrote in the foreword.

ICC. g Ramos, in the foreword, also just work together!) g book “Behind the Red Pen”

Ex-President Duterte ready to face...

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jurisdiction over him”, noting it is consistent with the principle of complementarity.

“When we became a member of the ICC… we never intended the ICC to be a substitute for domestic legal systems. It was very clear under the principle of complementarity that the court should only exercise jurisdiction when domestic institutions are unable and/or unwilling to exercise jurisdiction,” Roque said.

“Our legal institutions are neither unwilling or unable and complainants should file their cases before Philippine institutions and not the ICC,” he added.

Restraining order Should the ICC continue to exercise its jurisdiction, Roque said Duterte brought up the idea of asking the Philippine courts for a restraining order.

“He also said, and actually this idea came from him… that if, for

any reason, the ICC will continue to exercise its jurisdiction, he will go before Philippine courts for a restraining order to restrain the Philippine police from serving the warrant of arrest against him,” Roque said.

“He will argue that the Philippine courts are able and willing to prosecute these cases and therefore, there is no basis for foreign institutions to interfere and this is a consequence of being a sovereign country,” the former spokesperson added.

According to Roque, among the attendees of the meeting were himself, former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, former Justice Secretary and now Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra, and another representative from the Department of Justice.

The meeting’s sole topic was the ICC and took about four hours to finish, said Roque.

Does the meeting mean Duterte is concerned? Roque

Former president Fidel Ramos dies...

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Jo Koy and friends raise $75K for Fil-Am...

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evening, moderated by Kathy K. Im, director of journalism and media at the MacArthur Foundation.

Among the panelists were

Los Angeles Times TV critic Lorraine Ali, CNN reporter Lisa Ling, Panda Express Chief Brand Officer Andrea Cherng and UTA’s Jacqueline Kim, Variety reported.

Capping the event was a stand-up comedy routine from AAPI comedians that included Jimmy O. Yang, Ronny Chieng, Fahim Anwar and Andrew Lopez. (Inquirer.net)

PH won’t rejoin ICC; critics hit...

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had on July 27 with Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile and private lawyer Harry Roque to begin discussing the administration’s strategy in dealing with the ICC. The president said Roque was consulted because “he is involved and recognized by the ICC.” An expert in public international law and human rights, Roque is among the lawyers — the only Filipino — accredited to practice before the ICC. “So anyway, [the meeting was held] so we will know what we will do, if we will respond, if we will not respond. And if we will respond, what will our response be. Or it’s also possible that we will ignore them because we are not under them anymore,” he said.

The president said the ICC was “a very different kind of a court” so the government’s legal team would “study” the correct response to the ICC probe resumption.

“I told them to study well the procedure so that we’ll be able to do the correct thing. Because we do not want, of course, that they might misinterpret our actions. That’s why we should be clear about what we have to do, who will write who, what will be in the letter (among others),” he said.

Last January, thenpresidential aspirant Marcos said he would not allow ICC prosecutors to come and investigate accusations of crimes against humanity.

“We have a functioning judiciary, and that’s why I don’t see the need for a foreigner to come and do the job for us.

Our judicial system is perfectly capable of doing that,” he said then.

Regrettable decision The Philippines, a state party

to the Rome Statute since Nov. 1, 2011, formally notified the body of its withdrawal from the statute on March 17, 2018. The withdrawal took effect only a year after, or on March 17, 2019. However, the ICC retained jurisdiction with respect to alleged crimes that occurred in the Philippines while it was a State Party, or from Nov. 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019.

In March 2018, thenPresident Rodrigo Duterte ordered the withdrawal of the country’s ratification of the Rome Statute, the treaty which created the ICC, just weeks after former ICC chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda announced a preliminary examination was underway into the deaths of thousands due to his administration’s illegal drugs crackdown.

Opposition leaders earlier asked Marcos to rejoin the ICC to boost safeguards against human rights abuses.

On Monday, Sen. Risa Hontiveros said Marcos’ decision for the Philippines to stay out of the ICC was “regrettable,” insisting that those being investigated by the international body should not be afraid if they “have nothing to hide.”

“It is the prerogative of the President, though it is regrettable as the Rome Statute is the collective commitment of the community of nations against state-sponsored impunity,” Hontiveros said in a statement.

“I hope he will not undermine or block [the] investigation of acts or violations that took place before the Philippines withdrew from the ICC,” she said.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said he did not agree with Marcos’ move, but he acknowledged that the chief executive was the “decision-maker on if and/ or when to join an international organization or treaty.”

Probe resumption Lawyers representing the drug war victims said they remained undaunted by the president’s decision not to rejoin the ICC, expressing confidence that the probe would still continue.

Edre Olalia, president of the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers, said Marcos’ decision “would not fatally affect the resumption of the investigation even as it would not be a walk in the park.”

“The ICC has the means, experience, resources and creativity to deal with situations such as noncooperation by states,” Olalia said.

Experts in international law and even the ICC itself believed that withdrawal from the statute would not affect ongoing proceedings, including the current investigation into the alleged crimes against humanity committed during Duterte’s six-year war on drugs.

This follows Article 127 of the Rome Statute, which states that criminal investigations and proceedings that started before withdrawals took effect will continue.

The ICC’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, recently asked the court to reopen a probe into the drug war, which was deferred last year upon the request of the Philippine government, after finding that the country did not conduct any genuine investigation into the crimes being investigated by the high tribunal.

Lawyer Kristina Conti, cocounsel for the victims, called Marcos’ decision “a terrible mistake, and could prove to be a costly miscalculation not to rejoin the ICC.” “Should [the president] choose not to cooperate with the international court’s investigation supported and called for by many Filipinos, he will contend with a political storm with international impact,” she added. g

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Fil-Am group launches campaign vs...

PAGE 1 the pain when we see our AAPI elders, our sisters and brothers so brutally attacked. It calls us together as a community to do something. And in this moment, it’s important for us to understand what’s happening so that we can all come from a place of love,” said PWC Executive Director Aquilina Soriano Versoza.

PWC’s “Stop AAPI Hate” campaign launch and concert with Noel Cabangon coincides with the Philippines’ “Lingo ng Musikang Pilipino” (Week of Filipino Music). In the private event, Noel Cabangon and his son, Gab Cabangon, performed a variety of songs dedicated to Filipino survivors of trauma and racism. According to Cabangon, the issue is very close to his heart since a family member of his also became a victim of a recent hate incident in New York.

Noel Cabangon is a multiawarded singer, composer and musician, and is well-known for popularizing songs that evoke positive change in the community by uplifting human rights, environmental and social justice.

His son, Gab Cabangon is also a singer/songwriter and is the frontman of the KE band from the Philippines. The repertoire from both Gab and Noel Cagangon’s

musical performances were centered on bringing joy to the Filipino community amidst their struggles, sparking hope and healing, and encouraging strength and resilience. Noel Cabangon also invited members of the Filipino community to the stage for an impromptu jam session of OPM hits, which was then followed by community singing of popular Filipino songs.

“I know it sounds simple but listening to music really helps improve my emotional health and helps in my journey towards healing. I am grateful to Pilipino Workers Center and to Noel Cabangon for making this event possible.

Napa-jamming at napasaya nila kaming lahat ngayong gabi!” said Lloyd, PWC member and trauma survivor, now based in Los Angeles.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, an alarming trend of individual acts of hate, from verbal harassment to physical assault, have been directed toward Asians. And more recently, incidents of hate crimes against Chinese, Filipinos and other individuals from the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community have been reported all over the United States.

A national report from the Stop

AAPI Hate campaign indicate the following national trends: • Verbal harassment (63.0%) continues to make up the biggest share of total incident reported.

• Physical assault (16.2%) comprises the second largest category of total reported incidents followed by the deliberate avoidance of AAPIs (16.1%).

• Almost half (48.7% of all hate incidents took place in public spaces - in public streets (31.2%), public transit (8.4%), and public parks (8.0%).

“The history of this country was actually founded on racism.

From the beginning, our economy was built on slavery,” said Versoza. “It’s not new to the AAPI community that this is happening. This is larger. So, our solutions have to be larger than the incidents. In order to change the narrative and hold people accountable to what is happening in this pandemic.”

The organization’s “Stop AAPI Hate” campaign uses cultural events, healing workshops, bystander intervention trainings and educational programs to build solidarity and find ways to protect AAPI communities.

The concert is just one of many events and programs that PWC plans to implement within the coming months. g

Photos courtesy of Pilipino Workers Center

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SCHOOL PREPS. Workers and school personnel, led by Principal Julius Paleracio (2nd from right), clean the grounds of Dr. Jose P. Rizal Senior High School in Barangay Sto. Cristo, Dasmarinas City, Cavite on Tuesday (August 2, 2022). Paleracio said the activity was to ensure the school will be ready to welcome students ahead of the opening of classes on August 22.

PNA photo by Gil Calinga

LA County to start administering Novavax...

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see if their provider is offering Novavax.

California Health & Human Services Agency Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly, and Director of the California Department of Public Health and State Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, issued a joint statement on Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine being newly authorized for use in the United States to combat COVID-19. This statement follows the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup's support of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) recommendation.

"We're excited to have a new tool in our COVID-19 toolbox here in the United States, and the Novavax vaccine provides another safe and effective option for unvaccinated adults. Novavax will now join Pfizer and Moderna as recommended options to stay better protected against the most severe outcomes of COVID-19. Californians can rest assured that Novavax meets the FDA's rigorous standards of safety and efficacy that are required when receiving emergency use authorization."

"The Novavax vaccine was developed using protein-based technology instead of mRNA technology.

FDA-approved protein-based vaccines have been used widely for decades and include vaccines to prevent hepatitis B and shingles. Novavax is authorized as a two-dose primary series, given three to eight

weeks apart, in individuals ages 18 and older.

"COVID-19 vaccines continue to be our most powerful tool to prevent serious illness and remain a critical aid against fast-spreading variants, as we're seeing with Omicron BA.5 and BA.4 right now.

While Novavax won't be available for a few more weeks, we urge Californians who have not yet been vaccinated or are eligible for a booster to make an appointment

today.

"Since the start of the pandemic, the State has administered over 78 million COVID-19 vaccine doses – more than any other state. Staying up to date on vaccination remains the best way to prevent hospitalization and death from COVID-19, including for our youngest children. Find a COVID-19 vaccine near you at myturn.ca.gov or by calling 1-833-422-4255." (AJPress)

SOUTHERN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL CALIFORNIA REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITY RAIL AUTHORITY RFQ NO. MTL2204582 IFB No. MTL2204692 Insulated Joint Rail HELPER ROD Plug ASSEMBLY The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking quotes for Insulated Joint Rail Plug. Bid documents may be obtained at https://metrolinktrains. com/doing-business (free registration). Electronic Bids are due at 2:00 P.M. (PT) on 07/25/2022.

For further information, contact Arisa Hicks, Contract Specialist, at (213) 452-0250 or hicksa@scrra.net 8/3/22 CNS-3602253# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking quotes for HELPER ROD ASSEMBLY. Bid documents may be obtained at https://metrolinktrains. com/doing-business (free registration). Electronic Bids are due at 2:00 PM (PT) on 08/10/2022.

For further information, contact Arisa Hicks, Contract Specialist, at (213) 452-0250 or hicksa@scrra.net 8/3/22 CNS-3602221# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

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OPINION

Builder of peace, Team Philippines

FEATURES

HE wanted all Filipinos to rally behind “Team Philippines” – and Fidel Valdez Ramos meant it, without snide remarks behind his opponents’ backs or smear campaigns directed at his critics.

Winning the presidency by a plurality in a seven-cornered fight in 1992, “FVR” reached out to enemies of the state, forging peace with the secessionist Moro National Liberation Front, granting amnesty to right-wing rebels and negotiating peace with the communists. A hero of the 1986 people power revolt that toppled the dictatorial regime of his cousin, Ramos also reached out to the constituencies of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos.

Upon assuming the presidency, his first achievement was to put an end to the crippling blackouts. Although his solutions led to costly electricity in the long-term, the restoration of reliable power especially in Metro Manila and the production centers of Central Luzon got the economy back on its feet. Ramos then set out to liberalize the economy, allowing the country to avoid the worst of the Asian financial crisis that erupted in July 1997. Within the formidable constraints set by Philippine politics and culture, he made sincere efforts to introduce structural reforms and promote good governance.

FVR said six years is too long for a bad president, and too short for a good one. His supporters tried to

push for a constitutional amendment that would have allowed him to seek a second term, but the people’s initiative was shot down.

Upon retirement, Ramos gladly played the role of elder statesman.

In 2016, following the leadership change, Rodrigo Duterte publicly thanked Ramos for persuading the former mayor of Davao City to run for president under a platform of shifting to federalism.

Between rounds of golf and socializing, FVR wrote books. In one, he declared: “The only thing that countries cannot outsource is good government – which must be homegrown – along with leadership, national solidarity, competence, teamwork, and other cherished values.”

In an interview in his twilight years, he said, “Who wants to slow down? The most glorious way of dying, as far as soldiers are concerned, is to die from an enemy’s bullet in combat. But equally glorious and noble is just to drop dead of old age after providing for a family, paying your taxes, and helping your community and your neighbor.”

That is exactly what Fidel V. Ramos did. While mourning his demise, the nation celebrates the life of an exemplary public servant. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Commentary

MELANDREW T. VELASCO “WE Filipinos have always found it easier to die for our country than live for it. In times of peace and civil order, we seem to fritter away in bickering. We split so easily into fractions, each intent on its petty agenda. We play at intrigue: each pursuing his or her self interest, although doing so may be self defeating.”

Thus wrote former President Fidel Valdez Ramos as part of his foreword in the landmark book “Twilight Glory: A Tribute to Filipino Heroes and Veterans” published in August 2020 by Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc (MTVI) and the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV).

Prophetic it may seem were the former Chief Executive’s words of wisdom, Twilight Glory would go down as my last book collaboration with FVR who joined our Creator last Sunday, July 31, at the ripe age of 94.

For over 20 years since my first book on the Ramos family published in November 2000 in time for the birth centennial of FVR’s father, Ambassador Narciso R. Ramos, I have

Rest easy now, FVR authored and co-published 15 landmark books on FVR’s family members and his foundation.

Not all are privileged to work with a former Philippine president.

I’ve had the blessing of serving alongside FVR whose love for our country and heart for good governance always ring a bell until he breathe his last.

FVR or Steady Eddie, as he was fondly called by his peers and constituents, was better known not just for his thumbs-up sign, “Kaya Natin Ito” slogan, his ears or his tobacco but also for his push-ups and crunches and his programs of his administration especially with Philippines 2000.

Before Covid 19 came into being in early 2020, FVR, even at a ripe age of 92 still reported to his RPDEV office in Makati almost daily but stopped playing golf I. 2021 upon doctor’s advice.

Even in his nonagenarian years, he never failed to carry on what he had started. Always a good soldier, FVR always liked to say that he would rather die serving his country with his boots on than sit idly to enjoy his retirement. Thus, I remember him continuing to inspire and to stimulate, stir and enthuse, define and redefine, challenge and defy the odds.

In hindsight, even 24 years after he finished his term as President,

FVR or Eddie, the private citizen, refused to be “tired even while retired.” He continued to be “a reformer despite being a former President,” and delighted by an “ex” but never considered him to be an excess and not yet expired.

Other former chiefs of state write their memoirs and then fade into the sunset. FVR was an exception. In fact, he had written more than 30 books while in retirement and through keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, university convocations, etc., kept reminding his successors and other leaders of the urgent things what’s needed to be done for our country and people to achieve a better future.

My relationship with FVR can be described as a wonderful journey that transcended beyond the books we have done together.

As stated earlier, since 2000, FVR had commissioned me to write on the biographies of his loved ones: “Enduring Legacy,” on his father Foreign Affairs Secretary Narciso Ramos; “ In A Class of Her Own,” on his mother Angela Valdez Ramos; “Mommy: The Pillar of Social Work” on his mother-in-law Josefa Jara Martinez; “Simply Ming,” on First Lady Amelita “Ming” M. Ramos; “Uncle Sim” on Simeon

Philstar.com photo

Marcos Valdez; and, “Colors of Light” on his artist, poetess and ambassador's spouse auntie Lucia Mangapit Valdez.

Among the best book projects we worked and produced together are: Silver Linings, a story on the 25 Years of the 1986 Revolution, RPDEV @ 15: Our Continuing Voyage for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development and the first volume, Teamwork for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development chronicling ten years of the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV), a non-profit, nonpolitical, non-partisan nongovernment organization where he served as chair.

Our last book together as copublishers was co-authored with PVAO Administrator Gen. Nesty Carolina and Gen. Pol Bataoil, former Congressional Chairman for Veterans Affairs and now Lingayen mayor. Twilight Glory was supposed to be presented on his 92nd birthday celebration on March 22nd 2020 at Fairmont Hotel but had to be cancelled due to COViD 19 and lockdown in Metro Manila.

Looking back, it is not only a singular honor and privilege writing and publishing books.

All these years, I always consider it is a gift and a blessing from the Almighty and from FVR himself who always served as a constant guide, inspiration, editor and prime mover of said book projects.

The past 21 years and the several book teams formed have been a great journey of rediscovering FVR and RPDEV. With his passing to the great beyond, we have a bunch of team that now form part of a select group called Fidelistas, ardent students and admirers of Fidel V. Ramos.

Working with him has allowed the various book teams, notably the millennials, to experience some of FVR's core values and best practices such as CSW (Completed Staff Work), CSD (Caring, Sahring and Daring), and UST (Unity, Solidarity and Teamwork) – all advocated by FVR. There’s no denying that FVR also became my loving mentor and my second father having earlier lost my own when he succumbed to cancer in 1994.

Just like a disciplinarian father, there were times when FVR scolded me when especially when coming in late for our appointed meetings; reprimanded me when I was not up to his high and excellent standards; and, he patted my back in times of appreciation and satisfaction on good works done.

During regular visits to his office, he personally saw to it that my team was served with his “coffee royale” laced with virgin coconut oil because according to him, it works well for the health and vitality. We all have to agree.

After coffee, he treated us either

with a glass of red wine or his special “FVR cocktail drink” invariably laced with soda, rum, cognac, whiskey or brandy while watching some documentaries or FVR taped interviews showcasing his milestone presidency and continuing work as senior statesman.

As for his many sorties overseas wherein I was privileged to join, I witnessed how he continued to be admired, respected and adulated as former President and head of state.

But there’s one unforgettable experience I had with him that showed the stuff he was really made of.

I remember one incident in June 2013 when we staged the Pilipinas Roadshow with my co-book authors former DILG Secretary Rafael M. Alunan III and Gen. Reynaldo V. Velasco featuring our book “Silver Linings: 25 Years of the 1986 People Power Revolution,” and “Tagaligtas: A Documentary on the Spercial Action Force” (long before the Mamasapano massacre happened) in eight key cities in the United States to promote Filipino values and instill patriotism to the Fil-Ams in time for the Independence Day celebration.

Inspite of the debilitating pain on his back and leg when he injured himself in San Diego, California while doing his usual crunch with some Fil-Ams, FVR, who was very well beyond  PAGE 8

Why is Manila not in Pelosi itinerary?

Postscript

FEDERICO D. PASCUAL JR. WE can understand why the Congressional delegation led

by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi should skip Taiwan in its meetings with their staunchest security partners in the IndoPacific region, but why is the Philippines, a long-time treaty ally, left out?

Pelosi’s delegation, in Singapore on Tuesday, August 2 will proceed to Malaysia, South Korea and Japan while weighing the wisdom of also calling on President Tsai Ingwen of Taiwan as China warns of the dire consequences of such a visit to what it claims as its province.

If the Pelosi consultation with allies on “shared interests and values” is any indication, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will have to work harder to pull up Manila from the cellar that his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte had brought down relations with Washington.

Since Duterte’s watch, has the

Philippines shrunk into a small dot on the US geopolitical screen of the Indo-Pacific region?

Would that speck now loom bigger with the ascendancy of the lead male member of the controversial Marcos dynasty?

President Marcos enjoys the immunity customarily accorded to traveling sovereigns, but members of his family not in his entourage still have to sort out their individual status – and also that of their Stateside assets – should they plan to enter the US. China has been careful to keep strong the bilateral ties cemented during the term of Duterte, who announced in 2017 his country’s “separation” from Uncle Sam while he was standing in Beijing as guest of President Xi Jinping.

In Washington, US President Joe Biden raised last week concerns about Pelosi’s trip, telling reporters that the military thinks her trip is “not a good idea right now.” No China policy shift is expected to result immediately from the consultations by her group.

But the Pelosi swing through the region – with a stop in Taipei left hanging – would be

productive by helping draw out a deeper and larger view of the official attitude of the inscrutable Chinese leaders on the Taiwan issue and related matters.

CIA director William Burns has said he believed a Chinese attempt to forcibly seize the island, with its 23 million population – 154,000 of them Filipino workers! – was only a matter of time. But time is an infinite continuum!

Although China sometimes flies warplanes menacingly close to Taiwan, many security analysts say that an invasion at this time is not probable, nor profitable, for China. If one does occur, however, the US is committed at least on paper to rush to its defense.

Such a military confrontation exploding soon may look farfetched. But if it does happen, what will Manila do? What will Marcos do? Watch from across the Babuyan channel the war raging some 711 air km away from his Ilocandia redoubt?

‘Resetting barangay polls unconstitutional’ There is again another move in the Congress to postpone the barangay elections that have

already been set this December.

Instead of resetting these village polls to suit the changing politics of some potent groups, why don’t we just make elected barangay officials hold office for life?

After saying that, more in exasperation, we yield to an expert election lawyer, Romy Macalintal, who says that postponing barangay elections is unconstitutional. He elaborates: “The Constitution gives Congress the power to ‘fix the term of office of barangay officials’ but not the power to ‘postpone’ their election. Only the Commission on Elections has exclusive authority to postpone an election after it has determined that any of the causes under Section 5 of the Omnibus Election Code warrant such postponement.

“However, Congress has the power to postpone the Sangguniang Kabataan polls since SK is not created by the Constitution and SK officials are not barangay nor local elective officials.

“While Congress has postponed several scheduled barangay polls in the past,

said act was never challenged before the Supreme Court.

Now that several lawmakers plan to postpone the Dec. 5, 2022, barangay polls to Dec. 5, 2025, which would be its fourth postponement, it is high time that this constitutional transgression committed by Congress be stopped.

“The moment Congress has fixed the term of office of the barangay officials, say for three years, the said term cannot be extended by law as it will violate the electorate’s right to choose their own leaders. When the voters cast their ballots, the mandate given these barangay officials is only for three years.

“Thus, the Supreme Court ruled that said officials can only ‘legally and morally justify their reign by obtaining the consent of the electorate.’

“It is again proposed that the incumbent barangay officials be allowed to continue serving in a ‘holdover capacity.’ But this, as SC ruled, is ‘a subtle way to lengthen governance without the mandate from the governed.

If they want to continue serving, they must get a new mandate in the elections as scheduled by

law.’

“It is unconstitutional because ‘holdover positions’ are actually ‘legislative appointments’ making holdover positions violative of the constitution’s rule that barangay officials should be elected and not appointed.”

On ‘saving funds’ by postponing the election, we agree with former senator (now representative) Ralph Recto’s opposition when the Senate voted to postpone the 2016 barangay polls. He said: “Makakatipid daw? Pero paano?

The math here is that by putting off the elections for a year, we are only putting aside funds budgeted for the elections for a year. We can only save money if we are permanently canceling the polls. But we are only postponing it.” (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.

*** NB: Author is on Twitter as @FDPascual.

Email: fdp333@yahoo.com. All Postscripts are also archived at ManilaMail.com

The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.

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SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 3-5, 2022 7

PH ‘closely monitoring developments’ on Pelosi’s reported Taiwan visit

CLEANUP DRIVE: Volunteers and personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Manila Department of Public Services join a cleanup drive to clear the Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach of garbage washed up by waves on Sunday, July 31. The Dolomite Beach is the newest attraction initiated by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources as part of its Manila Bay rehabilitation program.

PNA photo by Avito Dalan

PH reaffirms stance against use of nuclear weapons

by Kaycee

Valmonte

Philstar.com

MANILA — The Philippines reaffirmed its stance against using nuclear weapons and instead promoted the use of nuclear energy for other peaceful means.

The statement comes just as treaty party representatives from around the world attend the 10th Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which kicked off on Monday in New York and will continue until August 26.

“The humanitarian consequences of [the] use of nuclear weapons are too unimaginable to consider. No nuclear weapons should ever be used and there is nothing that justifies their salience in the military and security doctrine of any nation,” Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo said in a statement on Monday evening.

Manila emphasized that international instruments such as the NPT “are fundamental to a rules-based international order that sustains the security of nations and the conditions for our peoples to thrive in peace."

The Philippines also said that the NPT serves as an important avenue to “enhance transparency and establish security dialogue mechanisms among relevant regional actors.”

The treaty, which entered into force in 1970, aims to prevent the use of nuclear weapons and their technology. Conference participants are now tasked to look into how the treaty is being implemented.

“The Review Conference is an opportunity to affirm that the Treaty is on a solid footing 50 years after its adoption, and the spirit of constructive multilateralism prevails among nations, notwithstanding geopolitical challenges and conflicts,” Manalo said.

The Philippines also emphasized that the NPT is important in keeping nuclear states in the direction of getting rid of their stockpiles as well as discussing the modernization of nuclear arsenals.

“We support efforts towards nuclear risk reduction as an intervening measure while we work towards the total elimination of nuclear weapons,” Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral Affairs

and International Economic Relations Carlos Sorreta said during the review conference.

Russia’s war on Ukraine Meanwhile, in their respective addresses for the review conference, both International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern about Russia’s recent move to seize Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

It is said to be the largest in Europe and is one of the 10 biggest nuclear power plants in the world.

“Russia is now using the plant as a military base to fire at Ukrainians, knowing that they can’t and won’t shoot back because they might accidentally strike a nuclear — a reactor or highly radioactive waste in storage,” Blinken said in his remarks.

“That brings the notion of having a human shield to an entirely different and horrific level.”

Blinken noted that for Washington’s part, it will not use any of its own nuclear weapons.

He said they will only look at u PAGE 8

MANILA — The Philippines said it is “closely monitoring developments” amid U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s reported surprise visit to Taiwan during her first official tour of Asia.

“It is important for the U.S. and China to ensure continuing communication to avoid any miscalculation and further escalation of tensions,” Ambassador Ma. Teresita Daza, DFA spokesperson, said in a WhatsApp message to the media on Tuesday, August 2.

Pelosi is currently on an official Asia tour, with stops in Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan in her itinerary.

Daza clarified that the department “has not received any request” neither from the U.S. government nor the U.S. embassy in Manila to either transit or visit the Philippines during this trip.

There are talks that Pelosi would be landing in the Philippines’ Clark, Pampanga airport before hopping on a flight to Taiwan.

Beijing warned Washington last week that it would “bear the consequences” if Pelosi steps on Taipei. The relationship between the two countries has continued to deteriorate due to issues including Taiwan, human rights, and competition in the technology sector.

Pelosi would be the first U.S. House Speaker to visit Taiwan since 1997, 25 years after former House Speaker Newt Gingrich.

Taiwan is under the constant threat of being invaded by China and Pelosi previously told reporters that it was important for the U.S. “to show support for Taiwan.”

On Monday, August 1 the White House called on China to refrain from turning Pelosi’s Taiwan trip into a “crisis.”

“We trust that China and the United States will be responsible actors in the region,” Daza said.

China 'firmly opposes' possible visit Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian on Tuesday said Beijing "firmly opposes" the possible visit.

In a statement sent to reporters,

Huang maintained that "there is only one China in the world."

Like many countries in the world, the Philippines maintains a "One China" policy and officially only has diplomatic relations with China. The Manila Economic and Cultural Office represents Taiwan in the country.

"Should Speaker Pelosi insist on making a visit to Taiwan region in disregard of China’s strong objection, such a visit will seriously violate the One-China

principle and the stipulations in the three Sino-U.S. joint communiqués," Huang said.

He added that it would "seriously harm" China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The visit will also “seriously undermine” China-U.S. relations.

Pelosi stepping foot in Taipei will send a wrong signal to separatist forces, on top of affecting stability in the Taiwan strait, he added.

(Philstar.com with reports from Agence France-Presse)

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

LACMTA will receive via email electronic proposals for PS92050 - Interpretation Services (Board Meetings) at bids@metro.net.

This project is a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) SetAside contract. To participate in this RFP, proposers must be SBE certified with LACMTA prior to proposal due date. For information on the Set-Aside Program, visit: https://business. metro.net/VendorPortal/faces/ home1/certifications.

All proposals must be received on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Tuesday, August 23, 2022 at the email address listed above, sent to the attention of Victor Zepeda.

Proposals received later than the above date and time will be rejected.

For a copy of the Proposal specification visit our Solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https:// business.metro.net or for further information email Victor Zepeda at zepedav@ metro.net.

LACMTA will receive Proposals for PS89616 - ESFV Progressive Design Build procurementat the 9th Floor Receptionist Desk, Vendor/ Contract Management Department, One Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

All Proposals must be submitted to LACMTA, and be filed at the reception desk, 9th floor, V/CM Department, on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Monday, October 3, 2022.

Proposals received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened.

Each proposal must be sealed and marked Proposal No. PS89616. A virtual Pre-proposal conference will be held Monday August 8, 2022 at 9:30am (PST) via Microsoft Teams; access details are located in the LOI section of the RFP. For a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our Solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro. net or for further information email Mark Penn at PENNM@ metro.net.

8/3/22 CNS-3610457# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

8/3/22 CNS-3610449# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

8 AUGUST 3-5, 2022 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline PhiliPPines

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DOJ to obey CA on Vhong Navarro case PH reaffirms stance against use of nuclear weapons

by EvElyn

Macairan

Philstar.com

MANILA — The Department of Justice would comply with the orders of the Court of Appeals (CA) and file charges against actor and television host Ferdinand “Vhong” Navarro for allegedly raping model Deniece Cornejo in 2014, DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said on Tuesday, Agusut 2.

“We will obey the courts,” Remulla said when asked for his reaction on the CA 14th Division’s July 21 decision granting a petition for review filed by Cornejo against the DOJ and Navarro.

The CA division ordered the DOJ resolutions dated April 30, 2018 and July 14, 2020 reversed and set aside.

The appellate court also directed the Taguig prosecutor’s

office to file charges of rape and acts of lasciviousness against Navarro, saying it is up to the courts to determine, during a proper trial, who is telling the truth.

“It is the trial court that has the unique power and position to observe the witnesses’ deportment, manner of testifying, emphasis, gesture and inflection of the voice, all of which are potent aids in ascertaining the witnesses’ credibility,” the CA said.

“However artful a corrupt witness may be, there is generally, under the pressure of a skillful cross-examination, something in his manner or bearing on the stand that betrays him and thereby destroys the force of his testimony,” it added.

Cornejo filed three separate complaints against Navarro

before the Taguig prosecutor’s office for allegedly raping her in her condominium unit on Jan. 17, 2014 and Jan. 22, 2014. In the third complaint, she only provided the DOJ more details on the two incidents.

In a statement on Monday, lawyer Ferdinand Topacio said while it took years for the case to turn in Cornejo’s favor, it showed that “the wheels of justice grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly fine.”

He said that he and other members of the Citizens’ Crime Watch had always supported what he described as Cornejo’s quest for truth and to expose the lies surrounding this controversy.

He added that when Cornejo was his client, he helped her obtain provisional liberty after she was charged with serious illegal detention by Navarro. g

Over 100 bills in 18th Congress lapse into law

MANILA — Over 100 bills lodged in the Senate and House of Representatives during the 18th Congress have lapsed into law, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri announced on Tuesday, August 2.

The bills include the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2020, the Special Protections Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children

Law, the Vaporized Nicotine Products Regulation Act, and the Social Pension of Indigent Senior Citizens.

Local bills, tax, budget, and franchise measures were also among those that lapsed into law.

“I’d also like to put on record that these measures were the last batch of measures that we sent to Malacañang,” Zubiri said

during the plenary session.

“The focus on the last few days was about the vetoing of five measures but maybe we failed to see all the other measures that were not vetoed,” he added.

Among the bills that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. recently vetoed are the transport safety board and the tax-free honoraria for poll workers. (Inquirer.net)

More Senate panel heads elected; Imee Marcos gets 4 chairmanships

by Maila

agEr Inquirer.net

MANILA — Senator Imee Marcos, the sister of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., will now lead four committees in the Senate.

On Tuesday, August 2, Imee Marcos was named head of two more committees: electoral reforms and people’s participation, as well as cooperatives.

This is on top of the two panels — foreign relations and social justice — earlier assigned her to lead in the upper chamber.

Meanwhile, neophyte Senators Mark Villar and Robin Padilla were elected chairman of the Senate committees on banks and public information,

EMPLOYMENT

respectively.

Villar was also earlier named chairman of the trade panel, while Padilla has been chosen to lead the committee on constitutional amendments and revision of codes.

Senator Grace Poe is the new head of the committee on economic affairs, while Senator JV Ejercito will lead the committee on urban planning, housing, and resettlement.

Aside from economic affairs, Poe will continue to lead the public services panel.

Five senators — Cynthia Villar, Nancy Binay, Sonny Angara, Christopher “Bong” Go, and Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. — will keep the chairmanship of their committees in the 18th Congress.

Villar will continue to lead the environment committee, Binay is still the panel tourism head, and Angara will remain chairman of the youth panel.

Go will keep the committee’s chairmanship on sports, while Revilla will continue to head the committee on civil service, government reorganization, and professional regulation.

Aside from the environment panel, Cynthia Villar was also earlier elected chairperson of the committee on agriculture, food, and agrarian reform.

Meanwhile, Binay also got the committee on accounts, Go was elected health panel chairman, Angara was chosen head of finance, while Revilla will lead the committee on public works. g

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PAGE 7

using these weapons should there be nuclear attacks against the US, its allies, and partners and will only “consider” the use of the weapons in extreme circumstances.

Russia’s occupation of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant comes after it also seized the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and exclusion zone.

IAEA’s Grossi said "every single one” of its seven pillars of nuclear safety and security has been compromised at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. This means that nuclear facilities are not being maintained, safety and security systems are not fully functional at all times, among others.

Nuclear as power source

PAGE 6

amid crisis However, Grossi also noted nuclear energy generation’s potential role, along with renewable energy resources, in alleviating the world’s energy crisis.

“In Member States with established programs, the IAEA provides support for safe lifetime extensions and in the management of radioactive waste,” Grossi said.

The IAEA likewise supports “newcomer countries” in creating infrastructure and institutions that would provide a safe and sustainable nuclear energy program.

Grossi said 32 countries are already generating 394 gigawatts of electricity through 440 nuclear power reactors

and 55 more reactors are under construction across 17 countries.

These are seen to generate a capacity of nearly 57 gigawatts once completed.

“Asia is seeing the highest capacity growth, with major economies building and investing heavily in nuclear power,” Grossi said.

Back home, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has repeatedly said that the country needs to “re-examine” its strategy on nuclear power plants and look into developing fossil gas to aid in its current energy crisis.

France said it is already in the “early stages” of discussions to help Manila achieve its goal of introducing nuclear into its energy mix. g

With his passing, I believe that FVR is one of the greatest Philippine Presidents this country ever had, being a historian and eyewitness to Philippine history over the last 50 years.

Having served as 12th President of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998, FVR is best remembered for promoting the principles of people empowerment, a culture of excellence, and global competitiveness, focusing on programs to alleviate poverty and improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos. This is evident in the 229 structural/ reform laws enacted by the 9th and 10th Congress during his term, achieved principally by building unity, solidarity and teamwork among government and civil society leaders.

As a soldier who served for 42 years, including stints in Korea, Vietnam and in the counter-insurgency campaign, FVR retired as a 4-star General and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. He served as Defense Secretary from 1988 to 1991.

As President and thereafter, he is better known as a peace builder with the forging of the peace agreements with the rebel-soldiers in 1995 and with the Moro National Liberation Front in 1996.

The former President who has been in public service since beginning his career as a cadet in the U.S. Military Academy in 1946, continues to practice his

distinct brand of public service through the non-government RPDEV Foundation which he and key members of his former Presidential family organized only months after they left office.

His legacy of public service before, during and after his six year presidency are unmatched: West Point honor graduate, Korea and Vitenam War veteran, AFP Vice Chief of Staff, PC-INP Chief, EDSA 1 hero, AFP Chief, Defense Secretary, Philippine President, RPDEV and Boao Forum Chairman, EDSA 2 hero and Senior Statesman.

Not that he is gone, I can only recall the best times I have with him. Incidentally, Pilipinas Kong Mahal is his all time favourite patriotic song.

Truly, Fidel V. Ramos has left an endearing legacy to our nation and with the books that we have done over the last 20 years, I now comfort myself for being the torchbearer in bringing his indelible imprints on patriotism that celebrate a milestone of life, love, learning for his people and service to our beloved Philippines.

Rest easy now FVR. Thank you Mr. President for your service to our country and our people.

To honor your legacy, we will always carry on your favorite battle cry: KAYA NATIN ITO!!! ***

Rest easy now, FVR

his years, withstood the pain and committed to continue the 8-city tour to Atlanta, Georgia, Washington D.C., Virginia, New Jersey and New York without any complaints or grievance.

Beyond the pain, the show must go on. Such a kindred and brave soul in FVR and he taught the Pilipinas Roadshow Team a lesson or two on pain management, mind over matter, professionalism and honoring one’s commitment.

Through the years that I’ve known him, the many young and not so old writers that have been involved with the book projects have also seen the other human side of FVR – comical, witty and a tad bit serious when needed.

I still recall the usual drill when he shook the hands of one lady writer and FVR feigned sickness to the lady writer's great concern. Obviously, he was just joking.

Such funny incidents and lighter moments would make most of them wonder how at his age, he still continued to work and contribute to nation building with his wealth of ideas, wisdom and experience.

Unfortunately, for the many national leaders who came after him both in the executive and legislative, they didn’t seem to take the golden opportunity of tapping his vast reservoir of wisdom and experience, particularly in the areas of good governance and global diplomacy.

EMPLOYMENT

FOR SALE

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

The Asian Journal

MDWK

Wednesday AUGUST 3, 2022

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How Ruby Ruiz’s ‘no-acting’ approach helped land her a role in Hollywood series

By Marinel

Cruz

Inquirer.net

“I REALLY fought for her. This validates my decision,” said filmmaker Theodore “Ted” Boborol as a reaction to the news that it was Ruby Ruiz’s performance in his indie movie “Iska” that helped the actress land a role in the Amazon Prime Video drama Bb. Pilipinas 2nd runner-up Stacey Daniella Gabriel, Bb. Pilipinas Globe Chelsea Fernandez, series “Expats.”

Ruiz plays a Filipino nanny working for Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental Gabrielle Camille Basiano, Bb. Pilipinas International Nicole Borromeo, Bb. Pilipinas Grand International Roberta Angela Tamondong and Bb. Pilipinas the character of no less than Hollywood 1st runner-up Herlene Budol Inquirer photo by Armin P. Adina actress Nicole Kidman. The series, which is based on Janice Y. K. Lee’s 2016 novel “The Expatriates,” is expected to be released in 2023.

“Tita Ruby was really my first choice to play Iska. With what happened to her, I found validation in my decision to fight for her. I’m so excited for her. The more By anne Pasajol, arMin P. adina important news here is that she could get a Inquirer.net best supporting actress nomination for her performance there,” Boborol told Inquirer BINIBINING Pilipinas has proclaimed its new set of queens, Entertainment in a recent virtual chat. namely Nicole Borromeo of Cebu as Bb. Pilipinas International; Boborol said he actually visited Ruiz Gabrielle Camille Basiano of Samar as Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental; while she was on a break in Los Angeles, Chelsea Fernandez of Tacloban City as Bb. Pilipinas Globe; and California, from shooting “Expats” in April.

Roberta Angela Tamondong of San Pablo Laguna as Bb. Pilipinas “I went to her condo in West Hollywood.

Grand International.

Ang sosyal! She was even provided her The four Binibinis, including Herlene Budol and Stacey Daniella own car. The production took a break Gabriel, both from Rizal, as first and second runners up, bested because Nicole had to attend to another 34 other candidates in the coronation night held at Smart Araneta commitment. Tita Ruby treated me to Coliseum Monday, Aug. 1. dinner. Ang mahal! I told her, ‘Tita, thank Borromeo inherited the Bb. Pilipinas International crown from you. I’m so proud of you,’” recalled Boborol. last year’s winner Hannah Arnold, while Samantha Panlilio crowned Lengthy search Tamondong as Bb. Pilipinas Grand International.

Ruiz said one of the producers of Two international titleholders also crowned their Bb. Pilipinas “Expats” was able to watch “Iska” when it successors, who now have to secure back-to-back wins for the competed at the 2020 Harlem International Philippines.

Film Festival. Ruiz bagged the best actress Reigning Miss Intercontinental Cinderella Faye Obeñita passed honor from that festival held in New York her Bb. Pilipinas title to Basiano, while current Miss Globe Maureen City.

Montagne relinquished her national crown to Fernandez.

“They were trying to look for me. Of Winners of special awards are Rizal’s Herlene Budol (Bb. Shein, course, I wasn’t so easy to find because I Bb. Pizza Hut, Bb. Kumu, Jag Queen, Bb. Silka and Bb. World wasn’t mainstream, so it took them a long Balance), Iloilo City’s Karen Laurrie Mendoza (Bb. Moist Diane while to locate me,” Ruiz told Inquirer Shampoo), Tacloban City’s Chelsea Fernandez (Bb. Ever Bilena) and Entertainment. “I guess it’s true when they Samar’s Gabrielle Camille Basiano (Best in Swimsuit and Best in say that if it’s meant for you, it will happen.

Evening Gown).

There was one Filipino indie actress, her Continued on Page 10

Binibining Pilipinas 2022 crowns its new queens

Ruby Ruiz

Photo from Instagram/@rubyeruizzz

name is Chanel Latorre, who also auditioned for the role of the nanny. She got a callback but, eventually, she wasn’t picked because they said she was too young. She told them, ‘I feel frustrated. What exactly are you looking for?’ The producers said, ‘It has nothing to do with your skills. We’re looking for someone older, someone in her mid-50s or early 60s who can really act.’”

Thinking of Ruiz, Latorre told the casting director that she knew somebody that matched the description. “He said, ‘So what’s the name of your actor friend?’ When Chanel mentioned my name, he said, ‘Oh my God! We’ve been looking for her for a long time now!’ He immediately asked for my contact details,” said Ruiz. “Chanel then sent me a message and told me to audition.

In the beginning, I didn’t feel too excited because, based on past experiences, I would always be a finalist but would never get chosen.”

Asked to share what she has learned from the experience, Ruiz, who also conducts acting workshops for young actors locally, said: “I would like to share this with my colleagues and students: It’s

called no-acting acting. It’s something that’s difficult to achieve, to be honest. Even I got reprimanded on the set one time.”

She continued: “I come from theater, where body movements and facial expressions are exaggerated. There’s this one scene where I was supposed to look up to a helicopter that passed by. I guess I was feeling too happy, as if I was Mary Poppins, that I made an exaggerated gesture. I got scolded. Deadma lang dapat.”

Ruiz then shared another memorable experience while shooting some of her scenes in Hong Kong. She said, “The first scene I did for the series was at a mall. My character was supposed to join a queue of people at Western Union. Just for that simple scene, they filled the entire mall with people.

“As an actress, this helped a lot because I was really able to feel my character. I also felt lucky to be part of a project like that.

They have the resources. If this was a Filipino production, hiring bit players isn’t a priority, so most of them are given double or triple roles.”

Filipino’s success Ruiz and Boborol also gave their comments on the recent success of another Filipino actress, Dolly de Leon, who received rave reviews for her performance in Ruben Östlund’s social satire “Triangle of Sadness.”

The film won the Palme d’Or, the highest award at the 75th Cannes Film Festival in France.

“I’m so happy for Dolly,” said Boborol.

“I got to work with her a few years ago in a teleserye with Denise Laurel that aired in the afternoon. She played the evil principal there. Even back then, I already knew how good an actress she is.”

Ruiz, however, has not had the chance to work with Dolly yet, but would love to collaborate with her in a project soon. “I’m so proud of her. Making it to Cannes is no joke. It was also a big honor for our country.

My dream is to see the two of us, with Jaclyn Jose (first Filipino to win best actress

10

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2022

Minding Your Finances Atty. RAy-

Can you get out of debt without filing bankruptcy?

to pay. For many people, this may be the only realistic way to get rid of debts hanging over their head instead of trying to IF you are searching for pay their creditors slowly or debt reduction solutions, no even worse- not paying them doubt you’ve been inundated and having to face the legal with advertisements for various consequences later. debt management programs, Working out the right debt companies, and solutions. The elimination or debt reduction choices seem confusing to the plan to help you get out of debt average consumer. The truth is can be tricky. Everyone seems that every situation is to have all kinds of advice different and what may and they’re all convinced work perfectly for others It is important for you to have an accurate picture that their solution is the is not necessarily going best. How can you know to work the same way of your current financial situation before you embark which one is the right one for you. So, what do on implementing a solution. This means understanding to help you? you do before your debt For a free problems get worse? exactly how much income is coming in and how much consultation, call Toll-Free If you know your you pay out in expenses. As a starting point, you should 1-866-477-7772. Let me finances are a mess and evaluate your situation you’re struggling with a also write down your outstanding balances on all and recommend possible mountain of debt, then options. you need to create a your current debts and add up the totals. *** plan of attack to help NOTE: Due to the pandemic, conyou get rid of your debt now demanding the full amount before you embark on sultations via phone or video are available. properly. If you’ve ignored your which, of course, makes it even implementing a solution. This Questions? Email me at gethelp@rjb-lawofdebt problems for a while and harder for the person to catch means understanding exactly fices.com. you are now at a point where up on their delinquent debts. *** creditors have taken legal action how much income is coming in If you’re on a very tight and how much you pay out in None of the information herein is intended to to collect what you owe, selfbudget or if your income is expenses. As a starting point, give legal advice for any specific situation. help debt reduction may be out not even enough to cover you should also write down Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped of the question, and you may your living expenses, it may your outstanding balances on over 5,000 clients in getting out of debt. For need to immediately take the be impossible for you to get all your current debts and add a free attorney evaluation of your situation, legal steps necessary to protect out of debt without having to up the totals. The total figure please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE what you have. file bankruptcy to wipe out might shock you at first but 1-866-477-7772.

Many times, people what you can no longer afford it’s important for you to know (Advertising Supplement) come to our office with wage mond

garnishments, bank levies or a lien filed by a creditor against their home, and they don’t know what to do to stop it. These are the situations where filing bankruptcy may be the only way to get out of debt as quickly as possible and to protect yourself from further creditor actions.

It is important for you to have an accurate picture of your current financial situation

where you’re starting to create a plan of attack.

Alongside each debt balance, write down the amount of interest you’re being charged and how much you’re paying each month on that debt. Sadly, most people who are buried in a mountain of debt have lost track of what they owe. And because they have stopped paying their creditors, the bill collectors are

Photo courtesy of Philippine Airlines

Philippine Airlines supports Asia Pacific Fashion Week 2022

THE past two pandemic years were not particularly focused on flying or fashion events.

However, given how well the Philippines’ tourism and fashion industries are currently doing and how they are both contributing to the country’s economic recovery, these have become rekindled passions.

The Asia Pacific Fashion Week (APFW), which was postponed for two years due to the pandemic, will finally take place in the USA in August 2022 at a time when international travel between the Philippines and the US has experienced a spectacular recovery and is once again at pre-pandemic levels.

In its first year, APFW is honoring the Filipino fashion designers. Eight young and talented Filipino designers from Europe, the United States, and the Philippines are displaying their work in APFW, which will begin at the iconic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel on August 6, 2022, as part of the event’s objective to support up-and-coming fashion designers.

Los Angeles, where PAL flies twice daily from Manila, will serve as the “kick off” city for APFW in 2022 due to its growing significance in the global fashion industry.

Many fashion experts concur that Los Angeles is the place to be, with a steady stream of renowned designers establishing themselves there. After London, Milan, Paris, and NYC, LA is now considered the “fifth fashion capital” of the world.

Following the LA debut, APFW hosts a second fashion show the weekend of August 13 at the Decades Event Center in Las Vegas. Then, on August 20, 2022, the APFW travels to New Jersey, where it will be one of the special ancillary performances of “Fiesta in America 2022,” one of the largest and most enduring Filipino yearly celebrations on the US East Coast.

As an ambassador of the unique Filipino-style travel, Philippine Airlines has honored the creativity of local apparel designers ever since it was founded – akin to APFW’s advocacy.

There was, in fact, a time when PAL had its flight attendants wear uniforms with a touch of Filipino culture in order to establish the Filipino national identity.

“Giving space to Filipino fashion talents in the global area is an idea whose time has come. And the timing of our partnership with Philippine Airlines is perfect,” said Roger Oriel, CEO of Asian Journal Multimedia Group (the media partner of APFW) and founder of APFW. The Filipino designers to be featured in APFW will be flying from various places: Lionell Christian Lanuzo (from Milan), Jil&Jug Couture by Jugger Onate and Jil Lasaca (from London and Dallas), Alma Tomenio (from Las Vegas) and RACS fashion accessories by Racso and Wenelie Jugarap (from Brussels and Los Angeles).

Philippine-based designers showcasing their work in APFW are Toshimi Pacumbala, Angelo Dominic, Jian Lasala, and Dave Ocampo. For tickets and inquiries: asiapacificfw@gmail.com

Elisse finds joy in being a mom and partner

By Leah

C. SaLterio Philstar.com

ELISSE Joson’s life as a firsttime mom is “very different” from the time she was merely a carefree, single lady and a busy actress.

“Even if I am a mom now, I continue to grow as an individual,” Elisse admits. “I enjoy my life now. I still can’t feel that I’m a mom. I learn a lot and I still grow each day because of my daughter, Felize, and McCoy (de Leon). It makes me a better person every day.”

Felize McKenzie, now 15 months old, is an adorable baby for Elisse and McCoy.

Elisse Joson Photo from Instagram/@elissejosonn

The kid has been growing up too fast and they are both constantly discovering a lot of things about their bundle of joy.

An only child to her anaesthesiologist mom who raised her single-handedly, Elisse always dreamed of having a big family. Hence, she thanked McCoy’s family, who welcomed her with open arms after Felize was born.

“Thank you for McCoy. Thank you po for welcoming me and Felize into your family.

I always wanted to have a big family someday and now our baby is very lucky to be with a big, happy family.

“Thank you for loving Felize. Thank you for guiding us into starting our own little family, for helping us handle our relationship better, for motivating us to always do more, for all the advice and family gatherings, I’ll cherish it po. We appreciate everything that you do for us. We love you po.”

As partners and first-time parents, Elisse and McCoy try to enjoy each other’s company each day. “We try to learn new things and grow together,” she said. “That’s what’s important to me. Even though we’re young, we try to learn from each other.”

Elisse and McCoy were Continued on Page 12

Binibining Pilipinas 2022...

From Page 9 Arnold has yet to see action abroad and will compete in the 60th Miss International pageant this December. Her overseas assignment was delayed because of the postponement of the global tilt’s edition last year. The 59th installment was held in 2019.

Borromeo will join the 61st edition next year. The three other 2022 Bb. Pilipinas queens will head out to their respective international competitions in October.

Sunday night’s coronation program concluded a P-pop-themed pageant season for Bb. Pilipinas. Boy group SB19 gave a P-pop flair to the pageant’s iconic theme song, which they also performed on the finals, where they also treated the audience to a medley of their hits “Bazinga” and “SLMT.” Meanwhile, the first all-female hosting tandem of 2018 Miss Universe Catriona Gray and 2016 Miss Grand International first runner-up Nicole Cordoves that made “herstory” in last year’s competition returned this year.

But this time, they had help from Kapamilya heartthrob Edward Barber and 2020 Miss Grand International first runner-up Samantha Bernardo who both took over the chatroom with online viewers.

This is also the first edition with 2005 Miss International Precious Lara Quigaman-Alcaraz as a member of the Bb. Pilipinas Charities Inc. executive committee.

MSG Sphere in Las Vegas is on track for late 2023 opening To create a fully immersive experience for the audience, the company is working on 4-D The Sphere is connected to EXPECT Las Vegas to technologies, such as immersive the Venetian Expo by an indoor always be in the forefront of seating, evocative scents and pedestrian bridge. groundbreaking venues. changing temperatures that According to news reports, In the second half of 2023, will take attendees’ experience the MSG Sphere will be able to Madison Square Garden to a whole new level. It is also host a wide variety of events, Entertainment’s one-of-a-kind working with German electronics including concerts, corporate shaped venue, the MSG Sphere, firm Holoplot to have beamwill debut. It is located just east of events, musical residencies, forming audio comprising of custom-made live or pre-taped the Strip and near the Venetian.

164,000 speakers that will deliver It is the largest spherical structure events, product launches consistent, targeted and crystaland sporting events (boxing, in the world, and is a reported clear audio to every guest. wrestling or mixed martial arts, 516 feet wide and 366 feet tall.

And viewing is not limited but reportedly not basketball or The MSG Sphere is a project of to its interiors. The exterior the Las Vegas Sands Corporation, hockey).

What makes the venue stand shell, or exosphere, will have the which owns the Venetian, and ability to show programming. out, aside from its shape, is a MSG Entertainment. curved interior display plane that The 580,000-square-foot, fully When completed the MSG is about 160,000 square feet, and programmable outer shell will be Sphere will be able to host a canvas where content creators standout resolution that should anywhere from a 17,500 to can display elaborate visuals blow people’s minds. According 18,500 seated audience, which for brands, events, and artists. to an official, “the display wraps can ultimately expand to 20,000 Imagine seeing your favorite from behind the stage over the when standing room is added, artist, band, celebrity, product top of the seating sections and on seven levels. It is going to be goes all the way back behind the and what-have-you on a grand built at a reported cost of $1.9 scale… it will surely push content audience.” billion. developers to go out of their boundaries as the exosphere can be seen from quite a distance.

It could become quite the attraction for those in Las Vegas already, or those flying in by plane due to its size. As traveling has resumed after strict lockdowns due to the pandemic, Las Vegas has experienced considerable gains in passenger traffic in its airport, with a reported 4.7 million travelers arriving or departing in June 2022, which is a 23% increase from the past year. Similar to when the Luxor debuted in the 1990s and people regaled at the beam of light emanating from the top of the pyramidical structure, the MSG Sphere can be quite the sight for those coming in from the sky and looking at the Las Vegas skyline.

And since MSG Entertainment is one of the partners for the Formula 1 race taking place in 2023 in Las Vegas, it is a safe bet that the exosphere will play a part in enhancing the racing experience for both drivers and spectators. The racecourse will actually have the drivers racing around the MSG Sphere’s exteriors before it takes them to the straightaway on the Strip.

Reportedly, the popular band U2 is scheduled to open the MSG Sphere when it debuts in 2023.

It is rumored that the secondRealtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman helps those who need business financing, including highest grossing band will have loans for small businesses. For more information, call (702) 538-4948, or send a residency at the venue to be email to fely@precious-properties.com or fely.precious@gmail.com. spread in multiple months and on

community

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2022

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By RealtoR Fely Quitevis-Bateman

Day and night view (above, left and right) from the penthouse balcony of Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman of the MSG Sphere, which is scheduled to open in the second half of 2023. The Sphere will provide a fully immersive, state-of-the-art experience for audiences. At 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide, it is reportedly the largest spherical structure in the world.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (left) met recently with Nye County Chief Planner Brett Waggoner (middle) and newlyelected Nye County Commissioner Ron Boskovich (right) to discuss the huge impact of various projects being built on

non-consecutive days.

U2, which formed in 1976, is said to be the longest-running band with its original lineup. It only trails the Rolling Stones among highest grossing bands, having earned a reported $2.2 billion and having sold more than 28 million tickets in concerts around the world.

It will be interesting to see the MSG Sphere when it opens in 2023. If everything goes according to plan, it should become a leading venue for companies, musical acts and immersive events where both attendees on the inside and onlookers from outside can get the experience on different scales.

The MSG Sphere is just one of the many venues planned for Las Vegas in the next few years.

Expect the Las Vegas skyline to undergo some more changes as companies are planning to pour in billions of dollars in projects

Lunch business meetings with Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman are usually held at the Stirling Club Restaurant, while dinner business meetings are held at Benihana’s or Fresco Italian Restaurant in Westgate. Both places are just walking distance from her penthouse at Turnberry Place.

to the city, which includes the planned $3 billion entertainment hub by the Oak View Group that is in its starting stages.

Hard Rock International, which recently purchased The Mirage Hotel and Casino for a reported $1.075 billion, is pursuing its plans to construct a guitar-shaped hotel in Las Vegas.

If they are successful, that would make two guitar-shaped hotels in the United States for the company. The first one is located in Florida.

What does this all mean for the consumer in Las Vegas? It means continuous construction jobs and more employment opportunities when these projects open. And that could translate to more demand for housing in the future, even if there seems to be a slowdown in home sales recently.

I have many decades of experience in assisting clients who are looking for their first

home, second/vacation homes, investment properties or land (for future use/development). I can assist you in looking for these opportunities, given your budget and things you are looking for.

Many of my clients have begun to reap the benefits of their investments, including turning their properties to rentals or Airbnb, or getting a good return on investment for the properties they bought in previous years.

My company, Precious Properties, is a full-service company that has served its clientele since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805-559-2476 and 702-5384948 for more information, or send me an email at fely@ precious-properties.com or fely. precious@gmail.com. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days.

(Advertising Supplement)

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community

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - August 3, 2022

Reimbursement for community contribution towards a spouse’s education and student loan during marriage the payments were made.

Family Code § Barrister’s 2641 reimbursement is not Corner limited to education or training received during marriage.

Rather, by its terms, application of the statute is governed Atty. Kenneth solely by whether community UrsUA reyes funds were used to pay for the education or training.

ONE of the biggest Thus, educational costs and problems of millennials and loans paid with community Gen Z are educational cost and funds are within the ambit of § student loan debt. This eats up 2641 reimbursement even if a large part of a household’s the education occurred before budget even among married marriage. Marriage of Weiner, couples. However, what supra, 105 CA4th at 239-240, happens to all the money 129 CR2d at 291. paid towards one spouse’s In Marriage of Mullonkal education and student loans & Kodiyamplakkil (2020) 51 if the marriage fails and leads CA5th 604, 607-608, 265 to divorce? Well, California CR3d 285, 288, the court Family Code Section 2641(b)(1) held that the community is provides that upon divorce or entitled to reimbursement legal separation, the community where the spouse paid “shall be reimbursed” for its off student loans for education “contributions” to a spouse’s she attained before marriage education or training that with funds from her salary “substantially enhances” the earned during marriage. spouse’s earning capacity. Under In Mullonkal & Kodiyamplakkil, Family Code Section 2641(a), the trial court erroneously reimbursable community held § 2641 did not apply “contributions” means because, among other things, payments made with community the student spouse (Wife) repaid or quasi-community property for her premarital education with a spouse’s education or training her own earnings during the or for the repayment of a loan marriage, and the nonstudent incurred thereof, no matter spouse (Husband) failed to where the parties resided when contribute to Wife’s education/

loan repayments and family expenses. “[B]ut nothing in [§ 2641] contemplates denying reimbursement to the community where the student spouse pays for her own education or where the nonstudent spouse did not somehow earn an entitlement to an equal share of the community. Indeed, the statute refers to community contributions to education, and makes no reference to the source of the community contribution.” Marriage of Mullonkal & Kodiyamplakkil, supra, 51 CA5th at 615-616, 265 CR3d at 294.

At a minimum, reimbursable community expenditures include amounts paid for the student spouse’s tuition, fees, books, supplies and transportation. Fam.C. § 2641, Law Rev. Comm’n Comment, 23 Cal. L.Rev. Comm’n Reports 1 (1993). Beyond this, however, community expenditures are a reimbursable “contribution” only if directly related to the educational experience. Ordinary living expenses that would have been incurred regardless of whether one spouse was attending school such as rent, food and clothing, health care and entertainment,

are not reimbursable under § 2641. Marriage of Watt (1989) 214 CA3d 340, 354, 262 CR 783, 791-792. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information.This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

Become your own style icon “… As within, so without…”

Immigrant Living: 101 and BeMonette AdevA MAglAyA

WHILE appearances may deceive, more often than not, what you are is reflected on the outside.

Becoming your own style icon does not mean maxing out your credit cards just to follow the latest fashion trends. Don’t do it. It’s a fool’s errand. You can never get caught up with it anyway.

Fashion, like technology, will push the latest trend just to keep and grow market share.

It’s all about money and profits.

Who says you have to buy every season’s new fashion? Don’t let those so-called fashion Nazis dictate how you dress.

First, get comfortable in your own skin. Focus on the positive features and accept and mitigate what you consider as flaws. Then find the style that suits you — something well within your means and makes you (Advertising Supplement) comfortable and confident while you do the things you love to do, or in many cases, have to do, on a daily basis.

Experiment with the clothes you already have in your closet. Chances are, with the exception of underwear, you probably have all you need.

Test combinations of cut, color, texture and style. Take a photo of the combinations that work for you and make you feel good and confident. Browse through magazines and pick a few that appeal to your own sense of who you are.

Stick to the time-tested classics and it is more than likely, you will hit the bullseye of being your own style icon. Dump the Hollywood look. Entertainment industry stylists push trends that are flashy, show far too much skin and wobbly, jiggly bits of flesh. Notice how they almost have the same cookie cutter look and the same frozen faces botoxed to the max? No, you don’t want to go there.

Keep mixing and matching.

Discard the ones you know in your gut you will never, ever use. Reclaim valued space in the closet. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. There is no fashion police to issue you a ticket. Pretty soon, you will know in your gut the look that telegraphs who you are without saying a word.

You’ve heard it before.

“Dress for success! Dress to impresss!” Or that famous line: “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit!” (Okay, I am going off

tangent here.) But the point is you must regard slogans with a bit of caution.

Catchy rhyming slogans are not necessarily true.

Discernment is key. When you dress to impress, you will simply get stressed trying to top each ensemble you put together with the next one. Your ego becomes the driver plus your wallet is lighter. Life is just too short to obsess on this matter.

The focus becomes the dress not on how your style makes you comfortable allowing you to function without having to fuss preening all day in front of a mirror. The right style projects the person quite easily, making you your own unique style icon.

There may be clones of you, but no one is quite like you. God and your choices make it so.

If you work for an organization, it means you have to blend your style and comply with the company dress code. Looking professional and competent is key. Remember that as an employee, you are a reflection of the company you work for.

If casual jeans and tees are the norm in the company or because the nature of your work requires you to be holed up all day in some obscure cubicle and does not have to face the public, then wear them. It doesn’t mean, however, that you are required to dress down at all times.

If there is a silver lining in the COVID pandemic of the past two years, work-from-home has become the new lifestyle. For those of us who have to attend virtual meetings online, pajama bottoms and presentable tops, if cameras are on, have become the norm.

Predictability is boring.

From time to time, make an effort to look really good just to make ourselves feel good.

Why buy clothes and let them hang by their lonesome in the closet? Believe it or not, it does your psyche good to receive compliments from time to time, particularly on down days.

Do you know what is the cherry on top of a unique style icon?

It’s A KILLER SMILE. A smile that comes from your eyes is a light bulb that dispels darkness and negativity. It is essentially a sneak preview of the wellspring of goodness and love busting to get out from within you. ***

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.

***

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

Elisse finds joy in being...

From Page 10 both housemates in Pinoy Big Brother Lucky Season 7, where they met in 2016. Their popular pairing was dubbed as McLisse. They opted to reveal about their baby before PBB Kumunity Season 10 in October last year and subsequently got Kuya as godfather for their child.

Elisse also thanked McCoy for constantly being with her, especially throughout her pregnancy. “You are a good son to Tito Mark, Tita Sheila,” she told McCoy. “A good brother to Ian, Markus and Shyla. A good man to me and a good daddy to Felize. You’re not perfect, but you do everything you can to be the best man for all of us.”

Elisse continued to praise McCoy for everything he does for their small family before expressing her love for her partner.

“Thank you for all that you do. Thank you for being you. We love you. I know that Felize will take on a lot of good qualities from you as she grows, not just your good genes. Naks!”

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