100722 - New York & New Jersey Edition

DATELINE USA

Unpacking California’s record-breaking $54 billion climate budget

AMID unprecedented heat waves and major wildfires, California signed off on the state’s most ambitious effort to combat climate change with a $54 billion spending package designed to cut emissions and phase out fossil fuels.

The $54 billion funding “complements” a group of bills that Governor Gavin Newsom signed on Sept. 16 that aim to move the state closer to 100% clean energy, Newsom’s office said.

“We’re not interested in doubling down on stupid. We’re not interested in investing in

Biden marks Fil-Am History Month by celebrating ‘innumerable contributions’ of Fil-Ams in US

American History Month.

The commander-in-chief took to social media to “celebrate” the “innumerable contributions and rich heritage” of the Fil-Am community.

“Jill and I are proud to recognize Filipino

American History Month and celebrate the innumerable contributions and rich heritage of Filipino Americans across our nation,” Biden wrote in a message posted on Twitter and Facebook.

by KLARIZE MEDENILLA AJPress

THOUGH it feels as if Filipinos only just made it to the United States in the mid-to-late 20th century, it’s worth knowing that Filipinos made their mark centuries earlier.

The first recorded Filipinos to touch North American soil arrived on Oct. 18, 1587; Filipinos arrived in Morro Bay, California before the United States was founded.

The Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) — the Seattle, Washingtonbased that first commemorated October as Filipino American History Month — declared

Palace to probe Percy Lapid slay

by DAPHNE GALVEZ Inquirer.net

MALACAÑANG on Tuesday, October 4 defended President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. after receiving heavy flak over his unannounced trip to Singapore to watch the Formula 1 night race over the weekend.

Speaking to reporters, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said that Marcos carried out his duties as president while he was in Singapore.

MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is “concerned” over the killing of radio broadcaster Percy Lapid in Las Piñas on Monday night, October 3, Malacañang said.

Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Hubert Guevara said on Tuesday, October 4,

Palace officials have been instructed to look at the investigation into Lapid’s ambush.

“The Office of the President, particularly President Marcos, is concerned with what happened to Percy Lapid,” he told reporters in

Philippines tops global disaster risk index

by KAYCEE VALMONTE Philstar.com

MANILA — The Philippines ranked first on the list of global disaster risk hotspots based on the latest World Risk Index report, which measures a country’s exposure and vulnerability to natural hazards.

The study, prepared by Germany-based Bündnis Entwicklung Hilft and the Institute for International

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (center)

with Singaporean Foreign Affairs Minister

(L)

Day of exits: Angeles, Calida resign; Rodriguez out

by Nestor Corrales Inquirer.net

MANILA — President

Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s threemonth-old administration lost three key officials in one day with the resignation of Commission on Audit (COA) Chair Jose Calida and Press Secretary Trixie Cruz Angeles, and an announcement of former Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez’s official departure from Malacañang.

Angeles cited health conditions in quitting her post on Tuesday, October 4 while Calida gave multiple reasons that were not immediately disclosed to the public.

Rodriguez, who was supposed to have assumed a new Cabinet-rank office as the presidential chief of staff, “is no longer a member” of Marcos’ official family, according to the new Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

The day of Cabinet exits began with Angeles’ brief statement to reporters: “I tendered my resignation this morning, effective end of business hours today due to health reasons.”

“It was a pleasure working with you,” she said.

No replacement yet

Speaking to Malacañang reporters on Tuesday afternoon, Senior Deputy

Executive Secretary Hubert Guevara confirmed that Angeles had resigned because of “certain medical conditions.”

The official said Marcos had not appointed a replacement for Angeles, even as the chief executive thanked her for her service to the administration.

“Hopefully in the near future we will have a new press secretary,” Guevara said.

Angeles’ resignation came weeks after she committed a blunder during a September press briefing when she falsely stated that only Marcos had been accommodated by U.S. President Joe Biden

for a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, out of many requests from other nations.

In August, the Office of the Press Secretary also courted controversy when Angeles said state-run media would get priority access to information and interviews under the president’s “singlemessaging policy.”

Angeles, along with Calida and Rodriguez, was among the Cabinet officials bypassed by the Commission on Appointments (CA) as the body ran out of time to confirm presidential appointees before Congress

went on its mandatory recess last week.

On Sept. 17, Rodriguez announced his resignation after only 79 days as the president’s executive secretary, a position informally called the “little president” as the top-ranking executive in the Office of the President.

Rodriguez had said he was leaving office because he wanted more time with his family, describing being executive secretary as “a 24/7 job with myriad topics expected to be attended to every day.”

“Equally valuable, however, is to witness firsthand your young family grow and evolve into how every parent would wish them to become and they most need me too,” Rodriguez said.

Shortly after his resignation, Angeles announced that the president had given Rodriguez a new role, under Administrative Order (AO) No. 1, as the presidential chief of staff, a position with “the rank and emoluments of a Cabinet secretary.”

Not in Cabinet anymore

But on Tuesday, Bersamin told Palace reporters that Rodriguez was not in Marcos’ Cabinet anymore.

The former chief justice also denied the existence of

Philippines tops global disaster...

Law of Peace and Armed Conflict (IFHV) at Ruhr University Bochum, showed that the Philippines logged an index score of 46.82.

The Philippines was also one of the countries identified vulnerable to disasters caused by extreme natural events, which include earthquakes, storms or flooding.

India trailed in second with an index score of 42.31, Indonesia came third with 41.46 and Colombia ranked fourth at 38.37. Mexico, Myanmar, Mozambique, China, Bangladesh and Pakistan also formed part of the world’s top 10 countries with the highest disaster risk scores.

“Risk hotspots” were said to be located in the Americas and in Asia.

The study assessed how 193 countries are more prone to disasters using an updated index, which now uses 100 indicators versus the previous 27.

“In particular, the inclusion of indicators on how populations have been affected by disasters and conflicts in the past five years, as well as on refugees, displaced persons and asylum seekers in the new index — also against the backdrop of the major global migration movements — results in a significantly more accurate representation of the realities of life in many countries,” IFHV Research Associate Daniel Weller said.

Emerging technologies

This year’s report also focused on how digitalization and emerging technologies can help countries prepare for natural events and create responsive systems to aid affected communities.

It recommended that data from digital systems must be kept safe and discouraged organizations from making a business out of digital techniques, among other suggestions moving forward.

In 2021, the Philippines ranked eighth on the risk index with a score of 21.39 and placed ninth among countries with the highest exposure to disaster.

The Philippines is battered by an average of 20 typhoons each year and is geographically located in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Earlier this year, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake rocked Abra in August, affecting over half a million individuals or155,911 families. The strong quake also left 11 dead and 609 injured. It damaged an estimated P74.896 million worth of agricultural products and over P9.732 million in livestock, poultry, and fisheries.

Most recently, Super Typhoon Karding (international name: Noru) left 12 dead, including five rescuers, 67 injured, and five remain missing after moving across Luzon last week, affecting 1.07 million people.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has already called for a review of the government’s disaster response procedures to streamline multiple agency response systems. g

Biden marks Fil-Am History Month by celebrating... Palace defends...

PAGE

The message continued with, “We support, honor, and thank you for all you have done to help fulfill the promise of America for all of us.”

In the U.S., October has been commemorated as Fil-Am History Month, following Congress’ declaration in November 2009. The month was chosen to mark the recorded presence in the continental United States as far back as October 1587.

October 1992 was the first time that Filipino American History Month (FAHM) was celebrated in the United States – a year after FANHS passed a

proclamation (spearheaded by Fred Cordova). Since then, FAHM has been celebrated annually all over the country – with initiatives by FANHS chapters, local community nonprofit groups, government organizations, and college student organizations.

The “advancement of Filipino Americans and as a time to renew efforts toward the examination of history and culture in order to provide an opportunity for all people in the U.S. to learn more about Filipino Americans and their historic contributions to the Nation,” read Congress’ proclamation.

Last year, Biden also recognized the

month by highlighting the contributions of Fil-Ams during World War II and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He acknowledged the service and sacrifices of Filipino Americans frontliners during the pandemic, saying they are an “essential part” of the strength and diversity of the U.S.

The Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) announced the FAHM 2022 theme as “Celebrating Our History and Legacies: 50 Years of Filipino American Studies, 40 Years of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS), and 30 years of Filipino American History Month.” g

“We cannot be defensive about it. I am not going to be defensive about it. I would even dismiss yung [the] criticism. Yun ang [That is] insensitive. You are entitled to your own private time, private moments. If you love to do something, you should not be moved or impacted by others who may not agree with you,” Bersamin said during a media interview.

Whether it was a fully paid trip or not, the new executive secretary said, is “irrelevant.”

“I am sure if that was the trip of the President, you don’t need to be too

particular about where the funds were sourced kasi he was still performing his job as President when he was abroad, although that is not an official state visit,” Bersamin said.

“He met there with many people who were very relevant to our business activities or the running of our government here. Whether it was a fully-paid trip or not is irrelevant,” he added.

The Palace official said Marcos’ race tickets were probably free or that he must have been invited to the event. (by Catherine S. Valente/ManilaTimes.net)

WHO STAYS,WHO GOES. The new Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin is now the “little president” and No. 1 member of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s official family. He and other Cabinet members bypassed by the Commission on Appointments last week retake their oath before Marcos at Malacañang on Tuesday, October 4. The Palace has not announced replacements for Commission on Audit Chair Jose Calida and Press Secretary Trixie Cruz Angeles, who both quit their posts also on Tuesday. Former Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez, despite earlier reports, was not given a new position as presidential chief of

Lucas Bersamin PPA POOL Jose Calida

Trixie Cruz Angeles

Victor Rodriguez File photo by Senate Public Relations and Information

F rom the F ront P age

Celebrating the ‘past, present, and future’: Filipino American History... Unpacking California’s...

the industries that have created the problems we’re trying to mitigate,” Newsom said after the signing at an event at the U.S. Forest Service office on Mare Island.

Newsom, who has sought to become a national leader in climate change action, said that this iteration of California’s efforts to confront climate change is the first step of a larger plan that spans decades.

Among other things, cut carbon dioxide emissions by 85% by 2045, ban the sales of gas-powered vehicles by 2035, and build 3 million “climate-friendly homes” by 2030.

Previously, the California Legislature approved $54 billion of funding for climate projects over the next five years. Of that funding, $6.1 billion would be allocated toward electric vehicles, which would include batterypowered school buses. It would also direct $14.8 billion toward transportation projects, $8 billion toward power grid stabilization, $2.7 toward efforts to mitigate wildfires and $2.8 toward drought prevention.

California, which is ranked as the fifth-largest economy in the world, is working to make good on its California Climate Commitment, which Newsom’s office said will work over the next two decades to cut air pollution by 60%, reduce state oil consumption by 91%, reduce fossil fuels by 92%, and create 4 million new jobs within these sectors.

Since environmental justice became a major political talking point, advocacy groups argue that the climate change conversation often lacked an important part of the equation:

the direct impact of global warming and its affect on disadvantaged communities, that largely include Black, Latino, and immigrant residents, located in areas of high risk.

“We believe that what happens with environmental policy in California mostly affects communities of color that live in frontline communities along freeways, rural regions, [and] industrial corridors around the state. But the reality is that they don’t often get a say in these discussions,” said Arturo Carmona, managing partner at Tzunu Strategies, which recently hosted an ethnic media roundtable exploring climate change policy and its effect on communities across the Golden State.

The plan to build climate-friendly homes, climate experts said, could be significant for communities of color and immigrant communities. These homes would replace gas appliances with electric ones and include solar panels; the legislation states that half of these must be installed in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

The plan also includes allocating $1.4 billion of surplus toward extending operating life of Diablo Canyon, California’s last surviving nuclear power plant, which was slated for closure. Newsom argued that the power plant played a recently pivotal role in providing emissions-free electricity during the September heat waves.

U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) was among the supporters of keeping Diablo Canyon open, penning a letter to the State

u PAGE 7

FAHM 2022’s theme as “Celebrating Our History and Legacies: 50 years of Filipino American Studies, 40 Years of the FANHS, and 30 Years of Filipino American History Month.”

Filipino American History Month is often mistaken as Filipino American Heritage Month, but FAHM was first established in 1992 to honor the past and to look back on the history of struggle, triumph, and evolution of Filipinos in America.

FANHS has emphasized the importance of recognizing history (as opposed to heritage) as it is a broader area to explore that includes understanding historical figures, events, and the lives of Filipinos rather than just cultural customs and traditions.

From the Morro Bay arrivals in the 16th century to the appointment of the first Filipino American attorney general in 2021, Filipino Americans have established themselves as a culturally significant community without which the United States would never be the same.

In 1982, Dorothy Laigo Cordova and her husband Fred Cordova — both of whom had been active in Filipino American advocacy since the 1950s as students at Seattle University — founded the FANHS, which was the first “national group committed to promoting and preserving Filipino American history,” according to FANHS’s website.

Through FANHS, the Cordovas made it their mission to educate Filipinos and non-Filipinos through community workshops and lectures, national conferences, and artistic and multimedia presentations. FANHS currently has 42 chapters across the United States.

Among the many milestones FAHNS is highlighting for FAHM 2022 includes the emergence of Filipino American history being taught in schools.

In 1962, UCLA and UC Davis taught the first Filipino American Studies (FAS) courses, which spawned other similar courses at other colleges in California

— like San Francisco State University and City College of San Francisco — and across the country, like Western Washington University and University of Hawai’i and other colleges in Oregon, Michigan and Virginia, according to FAHNS.

Over the next several decades, more schools and educational institutions would adopt FAS classes, from college-level courses to elementary school social studies curricula.

Since the mid-20th century, Filipinos in academia also began to pave the way across all disciplines. In addition to history, scholars from archaeology, psychology, communications, the sciences, and other areas of expertise would help establish the growing volume of academic journals, theory, and other research-based works that continue to help others better understand Filipino American history and identity.

FAHM 2022 marks the 30th official celebration since FANHS formally proclaimed October as Filipino American History Month.

The month of October was chosen to commemorate the Morro Bay arrival in 1587, but it was also chosen to honor renowned labor leader Larry Itliong, whose birthday falls on Oct. 25.

The impact of FANHS’s proclamation reached a head in 2009 when former President Barack Obama officially declared October as FAHM. On Oct. 2, 2015, Obama would celebrate the first FAHM at the White House in which 175 Filipino American community leaders, donning traditional Filipino garb, were present for the historic gathering. Since Obama’s first official recognition of Filipino American History Month, every U.S. president has recognized October as FAHM, issuing a statement of solidarity and acknowledgement of the Filipino American’s indelible impact on American history and identity.

President Joe Biden took to his social media on Oct. 1 to acknowledge

the national observance of FAHM, saying, “Jill and I are proud to recognize Filipino American History Month and celebrate the innumerable contributions and rich heritage of Filipino Americans across our nation. We support, honor, and thank you for all you have done to help fulfill the promise of America for all of us.”

Filipinos comprise the second-largest Asian group in the United States, behind Chinese and Chinese Americans. The Filipino American community itself is a diverse populace with a very rich immigrant community. According to Pew Research, 69% of Filipino American adults were born outside the U.S.

As the community grows — and as the country at large becomes more diverse — Filipino Americans today are making history of their own.

Over the summer, the first major studio film with a majority-Filipino cast premiered in theaters. Pop stars Olivia Rodrigo, H.E.R., and Bruno Mars continue to be pop music mainstays on, not just American charts, but global charts as well.

Perhaps most notably, the scores of Filipinos in medicine — nurses, doctors, epidemiologists, and more — continue to guide the country and the world through a global pandemic.

The opportunities that are available to Filipino Americans are more bountiful than ever and despite the economic, social and cultural strifes that have come in the way, Filipinos today are more emboldened than ever to establish milestones and create their own paths.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who became the first Filipino American attorney general in California in 2021, tweeted on Oct. 1, “I’m grateful for our community’s incredible contributions to building this state and nation, and I reaffirm my ongoing commitment to breaking down barriers and widening pathways of opportunity for the Filipino American community.” g

OFEATURES PINION Floating status

A new executive secretary has been sworn in, and he says there is no order creating the new position of presidential chief of staff.

Order No. 1, supposedly signed by President Marcos creating the new post for his former “ES” and campaign spokesman Victor Rodriguez, has not been published in the Official Gazette or released to the public.

So what is the status of Rodriguez? The first “little president” of the new administration stepped down in mid-September amid the controversial import order for 300,000 metric tons of sugar signed by Leocadio Sebastian, a career civil servant whose current status in government is as unclear as that of Rodriguez.

Editorial

shortage that the government initially denied.

Sebastian has since been placed under preventive suspension and recommended by the Senate for administrative and criminal indictment in connection with the sugar import order. Senators, however, cleared Rodriguez of accountability in the mess.

Sebastian believed he had the authority to approve the sugar importation, based on a detailed description of his functions as Department of Agriculture undersecretary and chief of staff of the DA chief, as provided in an order signed by Rodriguez that has been made public. Sebastian told a congressional inquiry that he informed Rodriguez several times about the looming importation. In the absence of any comment from Rodriguez, Sebastian said he proceeded with the import order, amid a sugar

Rodriguez himself announced he was stepping down with the President’s approval, saying in a press statement on Sept. 17 that he would continue “serving… the country” as the Malacañang chief of staff. The Office of the Press Secretary announced that Marcos had signed AO No. 1 creating the Office of the Presidential Chief of Staff, which would be under the direct supervision of the Office of the President. The press secretary provided details of the functions of the OPCOS.

Chief presidential legal counsel Juan Ponce

Enrile, however, said the broad powers supposedly given to the COS would duplicate or overlap with those of other offices in the OP including his own, and create tension. Retired chief justice Lucas Bersamin, upon being sworn in as the new executive secretary on Sept. 27, reportedly said he was not aware that AO No. 1 had been signed by the President. Bersamin is currently holding office in the Office of the Executive Secretary, so

his predecessor must be “floating” around Malacañang. While Palace intramurals even in the early months of a new administration are not unusual, care must be given to prevent such controversies from adversely affecting governance. The floating status of Rodriguez also smacks of indecision that could reflect badly on the President himself. This issue must be resolved with dispatch and decisiveness. (Philstar.com)

A ‘new dawn’ in Philippines-US economic ties

AS instructed by the President, we prepared a fully jam-packed schedule for him during his six-day working visit to the United States. He had countless meetings and dialogues with business executives of top American companies,

as well as forums/ roundtable discussions with organizations that include the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Asia Society and the World Bank Group.

The meetings covered key sectors that include digital infrastructure, business process management, information technology, aviation, security, agriculture and energy

as well as climate change and disaster response.

The discussion with global food corporation Cargill for instance centered on boosting agricultural productivity and how the Philippines can attain food security and selfsufficiency. The dialogue with NuScale Power –whose groundbreaking proprietary technology in designing advanced nuclear

small modular reactors has made it an industry leader – was very informative as it delved on clean energy and the potential of nuclear in lowering electricity costs and mitigating climate change. Other companies that met with the president include Boeing, WasteFuel and Procter & Gamble.

A key engagement was the Philippine Economic Briefing, and joining the

president were members of his economic and infrastructure teams that include Finance Secretary Ben Diokno, BSP Governor Felipe Medalla, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, NEDA chief Arsenio Balisacan, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Transportation Secretary Jimmy Bautista, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, Public Works and

Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan and Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy.

Among the big names that composed the business delegation that joined the president in New York are Aboitiz Group CEO Sabin Aboitiz who is also lead convenor of the Private Sector Advisory

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Metro subway a magnet for investors – Marcos

by Kristina Maralit ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday, October 3 said he is confident foreign investments will be pouring into the country once the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP) is completed in 2028.

The President spoke during the groundbreaking of the subway’s Ortigas and Shaw Boulevard stations and tunnels.

“Let the breaking ground of this subway system signal our intention to the world to pursue even grander dreams and more ambitious endeavors that will bring comfort and progress to our people all over the country,”

Marcos said as he vowed that his administration will launch “grander” initiatives under its Build Better More Infrastructure Agenda.

“With accessible designated stations that can cater to a massive volume of passengers, we anticipate helping our people skip the long lines of traffic and even spare themselves from the perils of commuting. With improving linkages of key areas in business districts in the metro, as well as the availability of stalls and other stores in the stations and nearby markets, we can see more business opportunities for entrepreneurs and

Marga Nograles takes helm as new TPB COO

MANILA – The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), announced recently that Ms. Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles has officially assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer on Tuesday, October 4.

Nograles was appointed member of the TPB Board of Directors in an appointment letter issued by the Malacañang released on September 15. Following this, the said Board convened and officially elected her into office in accordance with the GOCC Governance Act of 2011 and Tourism Act of 2009.

A recognized entrepreneur in the local fashion and retail industry, Nograles is the owner and proprietor of Kaayo Modern Mindanao, a clothing and accessories brand showcasing a curated collection of traditional weaves created by artisan women in Mindanao.

Her love for culture and fashion combined made her realize a potent medium of advocacy to provide a sustainable livelihood for women and artisans and establish a creative platform to showcase the world-

class weaving craftsmanship of the Philippines.

“Kaayo Modern Mindanao has been my baby, my passion project, my heart, and my soul. It was not easy to make this decision but now given the opportunity to bring more of the Philippines to the world, it is with a humble and grateful heart that I step down as Creative Director of Kaayo and take on my new role - for the country,” said TPB COO Nograles.

“I am deeply humbled, honored,

and blessed to have been appointed as Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines. I can only bow in profound gratitude and pray to God for guidance, wisdom, fair judgment, and inspiration to be able to discharge my duties in accordance with God’s will and the tourism agenda of our country,” she added.

Just like how she championed sustainable livelihood programs that uplift women and local artisans in Mindanao, Marga Nograles as COO commits to forging meaningful partnerships, embracing responsible and sustainable tourism programs, and supporting stakeholders following the multidimensional tourism approach under the seven-point agenda of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

“My fervent hope is to meet the expectations entrusted to me by DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, whom I shall support and work with diligently. May I be relevant as I learn from my mentors and may my heart & mind be focused on how promotions can best benefit our communities

Canadian, Dutch embassies call on authorities to ensure safety of journalists

by Kaycee Valmonte Philstar.com

MANILA – Following the killing of broadcaster Percival Mabasa, also known as Percy Lapid, the embassies of Canada and the Netherlands in the Philippines are calling on authorities to ensure the safety of journalists in the country.

The envoys urge authorities to “take concrete steps to ensure not only that the perpetrators are brought to justice, but to create a safe environment for journalists to carry out their work without fear for their lives and safety.” The European Union in the Philippines also backed the statement.

“We express our grave

concern about the killing of broadcast commentator Mr. [Mabasa] by unidentified assailants last night,” the two embassies said in a joint statement on Tuesday, October 4.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones he left behind.”

The broadcaster, who is also a staunch critic of former President Rodrigo Duterte and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., was shot while driving his vehicle along the gate of his subdivision in Las Piñas City on Monday evening, October 3.

A report by Las Piñas police logged that Mabasa was shot by two male suspects riding a motorcycle without a plate

number.

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines noted that he is the second journalist killed under the administration of Marcos Jr. The first was another broadcaster, Rey Blanco, who died after being stabbed to death in Negros Oriental just last month.

“Journalist killings strike at the very core of media freedom and can create a chilling effect tat curtails the ability of journalists to report news freely and safely,” the embassies said.

“Such attacks on media workers must be urgently investigated, and those responsible must be held to account.”

The National Capital

Region Police Office has since formed a Special Investigation Task Force to look into Mabasa’s murder. The Las Piñas City Police was also given a 24-hour deadline to “shed light on the matter and solve the case.”

The Canadian and the Dutch embassies welcome the action taken by law enforcement agencies since the incident.

The two embassies co-chair the Media Freedom Coalition in the Philippines. The 52-member alliance include other countries such as Australia, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. (with reports from Xave Gregorio and Franco Luna/Philstar.com)

Marga Nograles takes helm as new...

and the only country we call home!” enthused TPB COO Nograles.

Nograles will lead TPB to implement strategic domestic and international marketing and promotional efforts to revitalize the Philippine tourism industry as a sustainable, dynamic, world-class tourism, MICE and investment destination.

Born in Davao City, Nograles spent her school years at the Ateneo de Davao University and graduated with a degree in AB Interdisciplinary Studies, Major in Management and Communications from the Ateneo de Manila University. Since then, Marga has been involved in fashion and retail, with her being awarded the exclusive sub-distributorship of

Havaianas in Southeast Mindanao in 2005 paving the way for her entrepreneurial journey.

In 2000, she worked on special projects with the Philippine Department of Tourism in New York, such as the “Balik Davao” campaign which featured a fashion show that highlighted Mindanao designers.

She is married to Atty. Karlo Alexei Nograles, the current Chairperson of the Civil Service Commission. Together they have three children: Karlos Mateo, Kristian Massimo, and Katarina Mikaelle.

Nograles succeeds Atty. Maria Anthonette Velasco-Allones who is now the Undersecretary for Finance and Internal Affairs at the Department of Migrant Workers. g

Day of exits: Angeles, Calida resign...

PAGE 2

AO 1, saying: “To our knowledge, there is none.”

“He (Rodriguez) is no longer a member of the Cabinet. You must recall that he resigned due to a specific reason and that reason is well-published,” Bersamin added.

Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile had warned of potential complications with Rodriguez’s appointment as Marcos’ chief of staff.

In a Sept. 15 memorandum to the President seen by reporters, Enrile wrote that: “There is no need to create the position of the presidential chief of staff, much less grant it so much power.”

Rodriguez’s brief stint had been marred by scandals, including his purported role in an “illegal” order to import 300,000 metric tons of sugar, supposedly to address a shortage that had steeply raised its retail price.

But the Palace defended Rodriguez and the Senate President cleared him of complicity after a series of hearings.

In July, early into Marcos’ term, Rodriguez’s name was also dragged into an alleged scheme that offered a plum

government position for P100 million to a potential appointee who had the backing of a religious group. He denied the allegations, saying: “We cannot be held to explain something that is unverifiable or plain rumor.”

Bypassed COA chair

At the same briefing, Bersamin announced that Calida had resigned from his post as head of the COA, an agency that examines how public funds are spent.

“He tendered his resignation for many reasons but it’s up to him to later explain to you or publish to you what were his reasons but we accepted that with regret and we commended him for his patriotism for serving for a short while,” Bersamin told reporters.

Calida served as the solicitor general during the Duterte administration, defending the government in highprofile cases before the courts.

At the COA, however, he had mostly kept out of the public eye.

Also on Tuesday, President Marcos readministered the oaths of the officials who were not confirmed by the CA.

Along with Bersamin, Marcos reappointed Finance Secretary Benjamin

Diokno, Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Science Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Housing Secretary Jose Acuzar.

Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy, who was also bypassed by the CA, was also reappointed but could not take his oath as he was in Romania, according to Bersamin.

The last two Cabinet members confirmed by the CA were Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo on Sept. 28, the last day of session.

Under the rules of the CA, which is composed of senators and House members, bypassed appointments “shall be returned to the President and, unless new nominations or appointments are made, shall not again be considered by the Commission.”

Congress resumes its session on Nov. 7.

Palace to probe...

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an interview.

“In fact we have been instructed to take a look at the conduct of the investigation on the ambush of him last night,” Guevara added.

Guevarra said he will meet with the authorities investigating the incident “ensure that the conduct of investigation proceeds without any problem and report to us hopefully within

the next seven days.”

“I was in communication with certain officials who advised me that the Southern Police District has created a task force on Percy Lapid,” Guevara said.

Percival Mabasa, better known as Percy Lapid, a DWBL radio commentator, was shot dead Monday night at the gate of BF Resort Village in Talon Dos, Las Piñas. g

Unpacking California’s...

PAGE

Legislature: “The alternative to the closure of the reactors at Diablo Canyon will most likely be additional natural gas generation, which would reverse progress on emissions reductions and worsen air quality.”

But Edward Smeloff, managing director of the environmental justice lobbying group Vote Solar, believes this “troubling aspect” of Newsom’s plan takes focus away from smaller projects that could directly benefit local communities.

“There’s no certainty that it will run reliably and putting $1.4 billion into that alternative just takes that money away from other purposes that could have a clear, positive impact,”

Smeloff said, adding that the funding could have been put toward “community-based solar and battery storage projects” near communities of color and disadvantaged communities that bear the brunt of climate change’s harshest effects.

Smeloff acknowledged that although Newsom administration’s commitment to clean energy is groundbreaking, he said that lawmakers ought to “prioritize programs that impact disadvantaged communities and citizens in general rather than just big projects.”

These new actions by California are part of a larger movement across the nation to combat pollution and curb the overheating of the planet.

The Biden administration approved a $370 billion investment into wind, solar, and nuclear power, but at the behest of climate experts, states also have a responsibility to prioritize clean energy. (By Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

UNDAS PREPS. A worker sprays weed killing chemical on a walkway near an apartment-style tombs at the Panteon De Dasmarinas public cemetery in Barangay Sampaloc IV, Cavite on Tuesday, Oct. 4. Less than a month before All Saints’ Day, workers would start cleaning and painting the cemetery grounds.

PNA photo by Gil Calinga

‘Green’ energy open to foreigners – DOJ

by Franco Jose c. Baroña ManilaTimes.net

FOREIGNERS can own 100 percent of renewable or “green” energy projects in the Philippines, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said.

In a legal opinion it issued on September 29, the DOJ said the renewable energy sector is not covered by the 60-40 ownership rule in Section 2, Article XII of the Constitution.

It said, “the Constitutional foreign ownership restriction on the exploration, development and utilization of natural resources only covers things that are susceptible to appropriation, thus excluding the sun, the wind, and the ocean.”

The DOJ said the phrase “all forces of potential energy” in the Constitution should be interpreted to exclude “kinetic energy” such as renewable energy.

Potential energy is defined as “energy at rest,” while kinetic energy is “energy in motion.” Renewable

energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, and ocean or tidal energy are therefore considered kinetic energy sources.

The DOJ said the investment cap only seeks to “preserve for Filipinos limited and exhaustible resources.”

The “appropriation of waters, direct from the source, for power generation” should continue to be subject to the foreign ownership restriction, the DOJ said.

Before more foreign investments in renewables are allowed, the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (Republic Act 9513) must be amended to conform with the opinion, it said.

The government is planning to increase the share of renewable energy in the power generation mix to 35 percent by 2030, and increase it further to 50 percent by 2040.

Metro subway a magnet for investors...

investors and additional economic activity,” he added.

The MMSP, which was initiated by the Duterte administration, is the country’s first underground railway system. It will run from Valenzuela City to Bicutan, a length of more than 33 kilometers, and have 17 stations.

The groundbreaking signals the closure of a portion of Meralco Avenue in Pasig City — from Capitol Commons to Shaw Boulevard. Traffic in the area has been rerouted to give way to the construction.

Officially referred to as Contract Package 104, the P17.75-billion project is funded by loans from the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

The project, which will be undertaken by the TokyuTobishima Megawide Joint Venture (TTM-JV), includes the construction of two underground stations and tunnels at Ortigas North and Ortigas South.

It is designed to carry 150,000 passengers a day

once the first phase is finished in six years.

The Department of Transportation hopes to partially open the subway in 2025.

Once fully operational, the MMSP can accommodate more than 519,000 passengers a day and is expected to cut travel time from Valenzuela City to Bicutan City to just 45 minutes, and the 90-minute

trip between Quezon City and the Manila airports to just 35 minutes.

The President asked for the public’s patience for the “small inconveniences” they will endure while the subway is being built.

“Although it is a given that the construction of these structures will take time and cause disruption, let us be optimistic and just count the small inconveniences

as a small price to pay for the fruitful results that this project will yield,” he said.

Joining the President at the groundbreaking ceremony were Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa; Senators Mary Grace Poe, Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito and Mark Villar; JICA Chief Representative Takema Sakamoto, and Pasig City Mayor Victor Ma. Regis “Vico” Sotto. g

Government officials broke ground for the two main stations of the planned Metro Manila Subway Project in Pasig City on October 3. Philstar.com photo by Jessy Bustos

Buying real estate is still a good investment

By REALTOR FELY QUITEVIS-BATEMAN

OWNING a home is the quintessential American Dream. It represents a triumph for all the hard work that you (and/or your family or spouse) have done in order to reach that level of home ownership.

There are positives associated with owning your own home, and/or holding on to real estate as an investment – aside from growing your portfolio, there are benefits when you file taxes, and money earned when you decide to sell at a later time or develop the property to rent out.

One of the main thoughts that pops up is where to invest in property or land. Many people think about their retirement years and where they want to settle –perhaps in a peaceful place where there are things to do, and where people genuinely care for their neighbors.

Today’s increasing mortgage interest rates, coupled with higher real estate prices, have drawn

people to look for places where real estate is more affordable. One of those places is Pahrump, a town adjacent to the CaliforniaNevada border, and which is about 62 miles west of Las Vegas.

Originally inhabited by the Southern Pauite, Pahrump has grown by leaps and bounds from its beginnings, and had a reported population of 44,738 per the 2020 Census.

There is a great deal of development ongoing in this unincorporated town. Many businesses are setting up in the town or expanding their operations.

One of my clients, Andrew Hoang, the president and CEO of Alka Products is in the process of building a glove factory in Pahrump. A new Circle K is under construction. The town recently welcomed the opening of its first dispensary, The Source, which offers drive-thru pick up service. Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch

enhanced its racetrack – its longest configuration now is at 6.1 miles, and is reportedly the longest road course in North America.

Earlier this year, plans by developers to bring Nevada’s first pari-mutuel harness racing to Pahrump were bared, a project that would include a casino, restaurants, batting cages, shopping facilities, campgrounds, a waterpark, a movie theater and parking for RVs and vehicles.

There are companies who are also planning to hire more people for their companies, including ARES Nevada LLC which was awarded a tax abatement of $2.5M. It is developing a merchant energy storage facility at a working gravel mine in Pahrump. The company plans to make an estimated $26.7M in capital investments in the first two years, and grow to 51 jobs in five years, per a report from the Pahrump Valley Times.

Industry analysts have reported that in Pahrump, median housing price is at

PAGE 10

The second Circle K gas station in Pahrump currently under construction is located on Homestead and Gamebird Roads.

The Source, which opened its first dispensary in Pahrump recently, is located along Homestead Road, and is walking distance to Highway 160. It offers a drive-thru pick up service.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (center) with Alka Products CEO Andrew Hoang (left) and Jenny Truong (right).

The first Circle K station that became operational in town is located on Basin Road.

‘Green’ energy open to foreigners...

Based on Department of Energy (DoE) data, renewables make up 22 percent of the generation mix, with coal having the biggest share at 58 percent.

As of June, a total of 998 renewable energy contracts with a combined installed capacity of 5,460.59 megawatts and a potential capacity of 61,613.81 MW have been awarded by the DoE.

Under current rules, foreign firms may go into renewable energy development through a service or operating contract

with the government, but they cannot own more than 40 percent of a project.

In a statement, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the DoE is already revising the IRR of RA 9513 which places the exploration, development, production and utilization of natural resources under the government’s full control and supervision.

“Private sector investments are central [to] achieving our renewable energy targets and vision for the Filipino people and this is a welcome development for our foreign investors to invest in

renewable energy production here in our country,” Lotilla said.

He thanked Justice Secretary Crispin “Boying” Remulla “for this favorable development which will pave the way for the opening of foreign investments in renewable energy development.”

In 2020, the government allowed full foreign ownership of large-scale geothermal projects through financial and technical assistance agreements as long as the minimum investment amounted to $50 million. g

A ‘new dawn’ in Philippines-US...

Council, ICTSI chairman Ricky Razon, the SM Group’s Hans Sy, San Miguel Corp. chairman and CEO Ramon Ang, JG Summit president Lance Gokongwei, Michael Tan of the LT Group, Armscor CEO Martin Tuason, George Barcelon of PCCI and Magsaysay Group president and CEO Doris Ho. President Marcos invited “strategic investors” to participate in the country’s economic resurgence, saying that “key structural reforms have been set into place to allow for wider participation in our industries. With the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act or what we refer to as CREATE and the economic liberalization measures, we have expanded the space for foreign investments in previously protected sectors, especially those that employ advanced technologies and research and development activities.”

He spoke about the strong and enduring ties between the United States and the Philippines in all aspects of the relationship that include the areas of trade, commerce and development, with the U.S. being our third largest trading partner and fourth major source of foreign direct investments. He also assured businessmen about the reliability of the Philippines as a host for international partnerships, highlighting the country’s favorable business climate, sound macroeconomic fundamentals and the clear roadmap towards economic recovery and sustained growth, stressing that an even wider space has been created for mutually beneficial investments.

Meeting him in person, the U.S. business executives, institutional investors and fund managers who took part in the economic briefing welcomed the openness of the President in listening to their concerns. The way PBBM articulated his economic recovery program resonated extremely well with the businessmen, giving them confidence and the assurance they needed to hear, during the economic briefing.

As Sabin Aboitiz put it, the President has the ability to “bring together the best minds in business, use them to find real solutions to real problems and then immediately implement them like he was flipping a switch.”

Several American investors also privately told me that they were encouraged by what they heard from the President and his team, all looking at expanding their

operations in the country while some are mulling the possibility of diversifying their manufacturing activities or moving their operations out of China due to the supply chain disruptions brought about by the pandemic, increasing labor wages and costs, the trade war between the U.S. and China, among other issues.

Those that could benefit from the situation are ASEAN member-nations that include the Philippines. In fact, a lot of global companies have been resorting to the “China Plus One” strategy, which is simply the diversification of their manufacturing businesses to other Asian countries, with the ASEAN region a strong contender with its combined GDP of $3.3 trillion in 2021 amounting to 3.4 percent of world GDP, according to IHS Markit.

“Over the long-term, the ASEAN region is expected to overcome the protracted negative economic shocks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to be one of the fastest growing regions of the world economy,” IHS Markit said in its report last August.

While we work closely with our ASEAN brothers here in Washington to enhance relations between the regional bloc and the United States, as diplomats, we also have our national interest and specific agenda that we must pursue for our respective nations – making us competitors in one sense. My description is that “we are gladiators by day, but collaborators at night.”

PBBM has always been interested in business and had always wanted to be a businessman. Judging from the outcome of his working visit to New York, he is turning out to be our number one marketing executive – promoting the country as the “smart investment choice” – and that the best time to do business with the Philippines is now.

While we generated $3.9 billion in investment pledges, that is really just the beginning of what I see to be a “new dawn” in our economic relationship with the United States – and that moment has come. (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.

Buying real estate is still...

PAGE 9

$386,000, which is up 7.2% compared to last year’s median price. On the average, homes sell in around 49 days in Pahrump. Depending on what type of property you are looking at, you may be able to negotiate with a seller as the Pahrump market has also been hit by the sales slump being experienced around the country.

That median price is very good for people who are looking to at this town, and quite affordable for those who are priced out of many markets in the U.S.

According to industry reports, California residents are the top movers to Pahrump, coming from varied locations like Los Angeles, San Jose, San Diego and

Sacramento. Other cities that have residents coming into town are from Utah, Washington, Illinois, Oregon, New York and Arizona.

Traditionally, real estate has always been a solid investment for individuals and families. The market goes through its highs and lows, but one thing is certain –those who invest at the right moment are able to get their money’s worth in the end.

Just to illustrate: in Nevada, the median price of a home in 1940 was pegged at $20,700. It grew to $136,000 by 1980 and to $142,000 in 2000. In the middle of the housing crash, the median price was at $143,651. The recent surge in home prices, fueled by the pandemic, saw the median price go up to a phenomenal

$345,000 in 2020.

If any individual had invested on a property in 2000 in Nevada, he or she would have earned about $200,000 about 20 years later.

As of now, Pahrump is one of those towns where land and property are more affordable than other parts of the country, or even Nevada. Nye County, which Pahrump is situated in, keeps experiencing an increase in population, which indicates that many people are looking into the area as major cities get overpopulated and real estate prices get too high.

I have been a Realtor for many decades now and have seen the growth of Pahrump. I consider it one of the best towns to live in. With many residential and commercial developments coming into the area, and many planned projects that will add to the diversity of the town’s entertainment offerings, it truly is a good place to look for a home, an investment property or a piece of land that you may want to construct your dream home in or sell for a profit later.

Many of my clients have bought multiple properties in Pahrump. Some have even turned their investments into Airbnb or rental properties, which is another source of income for them. There is an increasing inventory in the market and now may be the best time to look at these properties.

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)

USS New Orleans arrives in Subic port for training exercise

MANILA — The USS New Orleans is at Subic, the former U.S. naval base, in Zambales for exercises with the Philippine military.

U.S. sailors and marines are in the Philippines for the Kamandag exercises.

“New Orleans, part of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and

partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the IndoPacific region,” the U.S. 7th Fleet said in a Facebook post on Monday, October 3.

The New Orleans has a crew of 361 and a 72-member complement of Marines. Its hangar can store up to two aircraft and the U.S. Navy said it can launch or simultaneously recover four CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters or two MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. (Philstar.com)

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman helps those who need business financing, including loans for small businesses. For more information, call (702) 5384948, or send email to fely@precious-properties.com or fely.precious@

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Atty. Gurfinkel answers immigration questions from Kapamilya in San Diego on part 1 of Citizen Pinoy’s ‘Your Tanong, My Sagot’

LEADING U.S. Immigration Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel visited San Diego, where he answered questions of Kapamilya from “America’s Finest City” and neighboring areas. In Part 1 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot,” viewers will hear answers to the following immigration concerns:

• Kathy, of Mira Mesa, wants to know if a person can visit the U.S. even if they are under petition.

• Raquel of San Diego is asking if she can petition her cousin in the Philippines as her caregiver.

• Edith is waiting for her green card through her U.S. citizen daughter. Her other daughter who is 15 years old, is in the U.S. on a tourist visa extension. Edith wants to know how her 15-year-old daughter can stay in the U.S. with her.

• Jefferson was petitioned as single by his mother, Virginia. However, he got married. Jefferson now asks if

YOUR TANONG, MY SAGOT IN SAN DIEGO, PART 1. Leading U.S.

Immigration Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel answers immigration questions from Kapamilya in San Diego, in Part 1 of Citizen Pinoy’s “Your Tanong, My Sagot.” Some of the questions Atty. Gurfinkel answers are – From Jefferson and Virginia: Virginia petitioned his son, Jefferson, as single but he got married. Is there a way to revive Mommy Virginia’s petition?; From Kathy of Mira Mesa: Can a person visit the U.S. as a tourist if they are under petition?; From Edith of National City: I am waiting for my green card through another daughter’s petition. My 15-year-old daughter is in the U.S. on a tourist visa extension. Is there a way my 15-year-old can stay in the U.S. with me?; the Cruz family: Grandpa Lando, Dad Allan, and grandson Chean drop by to visit Atty. Gurfinkel who worked on their case and successfully reunited the family. Watch Part 1 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” in San Diego on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, October 9 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

Lemonade for kidney stones

Health@Heart

PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

NOTHING to date can dissolve kidney stones, in spite of various marketed herbal substances or “natural and home” remedy potion or pills which claim to be able to do so. Don’t be fooled by false advertisements which are only after your hardearned money.

If you are prone to develop kidney stones, drink lemonade. It cannot dissolve kidney stone crystals, but it can slow down the development of stones. It is a delicious way to control your stone formation.

“When treating patients in our kidney stone center, we put everyone on lemonade therapy,” says Steven Y. Nakada, chair and professor of urology at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.at a previous annual meeting of the American Urological Association in Atlanta.

Potassium citrate is usually prescribed for patients with kidney stones. Citrate is a kidney-stone preventing substance, and lemonade (lemon juice) is full of citrate. The pill is more potent but the citrate in lemonade has been found to also slow down kidney stone formation. An alternative to “another pill” to take.

Liquid biopsy?

The term biopsy conventionally means cutting a piece of solid tissue for microscopic analysis to make a diagnosis. Liquid “biopsy” is a new promising procedure for detecting early-stage cancers by blood test, which replaces cutting a “solid tumor,” hence termed “liquid biopsy.” The article about this futuristic, much less invasive way of finding cancer at its early stage, edited by William E. Chavey, MD, MS, was published in the New England Journal of Medicine and Science Translational Medicine.

The report says, “The technique allows assessment of sequence changes in circulating cell-free DNA. Researchers used the method to look for alterations in nearly 60 cancer-related genes in blood samples from 44 healthy individuals and 200 patients with colorectal, breast, lung, or

ovarian cancer. None of the healthy patients showed genetic changes related to solid cancers, while the test detected genetic alterations in 60%–70% of those with stage I or II cancer.”

The researchers say the approach could “in principle” be implemented for cancer screening, pending validation studies. Early detection and intervention are likely to be the most effective means for reducing morbidity and mortality of human cancer. When it is validated and accepted as a standard diagnostic procedure, “Liquid Biopsy” could save hundreds of millions around the globe.

Your mouth and diabetes

Most people do not know or realize that poor dental/ oral health increases our risk for diabetes T2 and, in turn, this metabolic disease adversely affects our teeth. It is a vicious cycle of cause and effect highlighted by the American Dental Association.

The ADA “two-way-street” clarification: “Blood sugars fueling the acidity that leads to tooth and root decay and gum disease, and dental disease that leads to infection and boosts blood glucose when the body’s immune system responds. The 2017 publication recognizes the close association of dental disease and diabetes, even though ADA acknowledges that causes and effects aren’t yet universally understood.”

Also, dental/oral infection, and infection (inflammation) in any other parts of the body increase our risks for cardiovascular diseases and cancer too.

This is why dental hygiene and regular visit to the dentist is paramount.

Sleep and diabetes

Impairment in sleep raises our risk for metabolic disease, like diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular illnesses like heart attack and stroke, and even cancer. Yes, lack of restful sleep leads to increased proneness to all these major ailments, including deadly cancers. Indeed, sleep is that important to our health and well-being.

More and more, physicians today are far more vigilant about Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as a most common cause of impairment of sleep and its association and role to the development of (and as a worsening factor) for the major illnesses listed above.

About 3-7 percent (roughly about 10 to 16 million) of the U.S. population have sleep apnea, more among men. There are countless undiagnosed OSA cases.

Almost 25 percent of individuals with diabetes T2 also have OSA.

In OSA, there is frequent (could be hundred times a night) breath holding, severely reduced oxygen level, and the person wakes up gasping for breath. Some do not even wake up at all, suffering anoxia and heart attack or fatal heart-rhythm problem. The constant reduction in oxygen due to OSA every night also leads to fatigue, sleepiness during the daytime, lack of concentration, poorer decision-making, and inferior performance. Depriving the body oxygen and rest also increase the risk for those major diseases mentioned above, including cancer.

Among diabetics, SleepDisordered Breathing (SDB), OSA, and all other stresses impair the metabolism of our body in general and, among those with diabetes, the body’s ability to allow the medications to work fully.

Metformin, the most popular drug for diabetes T2, which acts to reduce the glucose production in the liver and reduce the cell insulin resistance, acts less than 100 percent when the patient has an untreated sleep disorder. This makes the treatment less optimal.

And the same thing is true among those patients with high blood pressure or other major ailments on treatment.

A good restful sleep every day is essential for all of us.

After a Sleep Study has confirmed the diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, the best treatment is the use of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) whenever going to sleep. CPAP has saved and improved countless lives.

Undermining global health

The pernicious and criminal modus operandi of tobacco companies, particularly Philip Morris International (PMI) and British American Tobacco (BAT), of running secret campaigns to block or undermine the implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) and governmental negotiations was shown at the FCTC Conference of Parties (COP),

Antoinette recalls heartbreak that made her an environmentalist

By Deni Rose M. AfiniDAD-BeRnARDo Philstar.com

IN the ‘90s, Antoinette Taus was a household name, having released hit singles like “Lihim na Pagtingin” and starred in cult TV shows such as “T.G.I.S.” and “Click.”

But in 2004, Antoinette’s world crumbled — and it’s not because of an actor who was romantically linked to her as her love team partner in a TV series.

“I wasn’t really exposed to being an environmentalist,” the singer-actress recalled in a recent media launch introducing her as the new endorser of Bank of the Philippine Islands’ (BPI) “Invested in You” campaign.

“My mom was all about charitable causes. Actually, Cora was my mom’s name… We lost her 2004 to cancer and I also have a longer version of that story.”

After she lost her mom, she fell into depression that challenged her mental health.

As a way to cope from losing her mom, she and her friends and family organized a feeding program.

“I said, hey, I’ll just do it one time and just for special occasions and it turned into a big thing. We posted on social media and it gained traction. We were so shocked! So within a year, we became a full-fledged nonprofit,” Taus shared of the origins of the organization she founded and named after her mom.

CORA (Communities Organized for Resource Allocation) is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating sustainable programs that empower volunteers, women and the youth, in contributing to the solutions to the world’s most pressing social and environmental issues.

As Goodwill Ambassador for the United

Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Antoinette is also the founder of The Sustainable Planet, a purpose-driven business centered on improving the lives of Indigenous Peoples, women, and vulnerable Filipino communities through various livelihood programs.

Antoinette passionately advocates for the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), speaking about urgent global challenges pertaining to plastic pollution, climate change, gender equality, mental health, and sustainability. During the BPI launch, Taus rapped for the first time and

Atty. Gurfinkel answers immigration...

there is a way to revive his mother’s petition.

Atty. Gurfinkel also gets a surprise visit from the Cruz family. It was nearly 10 years ago when Atty. Gurfinkel helped the grandfather, Lando Cruz, after the U.S. Embassy in Manila denied his son Allan’s visa because of a misunderstanding. The Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel were able to help bring Allan and his son, Chean, to the U.S. It was a memorable success story featured on Citizen Pinoy.

Atty. Gurfinkel answers these questions in Part 1 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot,” with Kapamilya from San Diego and adjacent areas. Watch this encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, October 9 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

(L-R) Edith, Jefferson and his mother, Virginia, and Kathy. Their questions will be answered on this episode of Citizen Pinoy.

The Cruz family is one of the success stories featured on Citizen Pinoy. (L-R) Grandson Chean, Dad Allan, and petitioner Grandpa Orlando, with leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel.

Actress and CORA founder Antoinette Taus Photo from Instagram/@antoinettetaus

Updated vaccines: How to update your protection against COVID this fall

By We Can Do This CoViD-19 PubliC eDuCaTion CamPaign

“BEEN there, done that.” People are feeling like they’ve heard enough about COVID-19. But staying on top of the facts, vaccinations, and level of spread in the community is still important to keep your family and communities safe. In fact, updated vaccines that can better protect against the highly transmissible Omicron variant and its subvariants are now available in the United States.

Here is what people should know about the updated COVID vaccines:

First, complete the primary series of a COVID vaccine. While more than 224 million Americans have been vaccinated, many could still get protection by completing a primary series with any of the available vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna, or Novavax. COVID vaccines are available to everyone age 6 months or older living in the United States at no cost.

Updated vaccines provide extra protection. Recently, both Pfizer and Moderna have updated their vaccines to target the Omicron strains of the COVID virus that are causing nearly all COVID infections in the United States. The updated vaccines also provide protection against the original COVID virus. Updated vaccines are available to anyone age 12 or older who has already completed the primary vaccination series. As the virus continues to change, vaccines will be updated annually to target the dominant variant.

Updated vaccines are now available. Updated vaccines are available for free and they are easy and convenient to get. Tens of thousands of sites including pharmacies, doctor’s offices, community health centers, and other places have the updated vaccines available. Most people will now be able to get one COVID vaccine, once a year, each fall. Just like your annual flu shot, get an updated COVID vaccine sometime between Labor Day and the end of October.

It doesn’t matter how many or few boosters you’ve had before. Anyone age 12 or older who has completed a primary series can get an updated vaccine regardless of whether they previously had zero, one, or more boosters. As long as at least two months have passed since the last dose, it is safe to get an updated vaccine.

Community spread matters. While being

up to date on vaccinations provides the best protection from severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID, additional actions can further lower the risk of these complications, especially when COVID is increasing in your community. Paying attention to the level of COVID transmission locally can help make decisions about what actions to take. For example, when there is an increased level of spread of COVID in your community, wear a mask in public indoor spaces, regardless of whether you’ve been vaccinated.

People who have not been vaccinated against COVID are at increased risk of severe illness and death. Vaccines, including the updated COVID vaccine, provide strong protection against hospitalization and death from COVID. Vaccination also reduces the spread of COVID and the emergence of new variants, further reducing risk for the entire community, especially those most vulnerable to COVID risks. This means that everyone can stay healthier and enjoy spending time with their loved ones during this fall and upcoming holiday season.

For more information and to find a vaccine, visit www.vaccines.gov.

(Advertising Supplement)

Heart Evangelista to stay abroad ‘indefinitely’

By anne Pasajol Inquirer.net

HEART Evangelista, who is currently in Paris, revealed that she bought a new apartment and noted that she will be staying abroad “indefinitely,” amid her rumored split with

husband, Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero.

The actress disclosed this after she was asked by a netizen to name the things she purchased recently, during Evangelista’s Instagram live last Wednesday, Sept. 28. The video has since expired on her Instagram page but

it was re-uploaded by fan accounts on social media.

“I just got myself an apartment so I don’t really plan to buy anything else because I have all [these] nice furniture [so] I am saving up for that,” she said.

Evangelista also spoke

Tom ‘happily moving on’ but not open to romance: ‘I’m enjoying life’

By Dana Cruz Inquirer.net

TOM Rodriguez is now “happily moving on” after his split with actress Carla Abellana, stressing that he is enjoying his life in the United States and is not open to romance for now.

The actor, who turns a year older on Saturday, Oct. 1, opened up on his life in the U.S. in an interview with comedian Ogie Diaz for the latter’s YouTube vlog on Friday, Sept. 30.

“I’ve been through a dark night of the soul these past few months and a lot of things that I didn’t think I would make it through, but my family has been [there] all throughout,” he told Diaz. “The kindness of strangers, people I’ve just met, people I’ve known before who have truly helped me along.”

When asked if he has communicated with Abellana, Rodriguez brushed off the topic, but expressed the hope that the actress would move forward as well.

“I would rather refrain from commenting. At the same time, I’m happily moving on in my own path. I hope, I wish the same for her,” he answered.

For now, Rodriguez is focused on himself and his family. He also emphasized that finding a partner is not

his priority for now.

“It’s not what I’m looking for right now. Gusto kong buuin ‘yung sarili ko. Inienjoy ko ‘to na binubuo ko ‘yung sarili ko and yet I’m not stopping or closing my doors to anything, experiences or anyone here,” he said. “I’m just enjoying my life.”

(…I want to make myself whole. I am enjoying working on myself and yet I’m not stopping or closing my doors on anything, experiences or anyone here. I’m just enjoying my life.)

While not mentioning specific speculations on

his breakup with Abellana, Rodriguez laughed off issues surrounding him and said such matters do not bother him anymore.

“Whatever it is, whatever people are thinking, it really doesn’t matter. It’s my family, my loved ones, myself. Okay na ‘yung alam ko (Knowing for myself is enough),” he said. “It doesn’t really bother me. Everyone is free to speculate or think whatever they want. I’m giving them permission.”

Speculations on Abellana and Rodriguez’s separation came months after their wedding in October 2021, when fans noticed that they unfollowed, then followed each other again on Instagram.

The actress’ father, Rey “PJ” Abellana, then confirmed last March that the pair was indeed having marital problems. He claimed that a “one-night stand” was involved, but later retracted this.

Abellana eventually broke her silence on the split and said that she was “made to look stupid” by Rodriguez, adding how she was not allowed to feel angry or disappointed throughout their seven-year relationship as a couple. In the same month, Rodriguez announced that his divorce from Abellana was already final. g

Gretchen lives out ‘Woman In Action’ rep

FROM being a star athlete in college to becoming a respected news anchor and sports host, Gretchen Ho has come a long way in charting her own path and making a name for herself. She has been dubbed as a “woman in action” and an empowered one at that, with her projects and advocacies making a big difference in people’s lives.

This October, Gretchen becomes a fearless wanderer in her new travel infotainment show, “Woman In Action,” where she explores remote places in the country, highlighting not just their beauty, but also the unique stories of the communities that will inspire and move people to action.

“I’ve found that traveling is best done by going off the

beaten path. As a runner, I’ve made it a point to run in each destination I go to, and the streets always reveal something that tourist destinations won’t. It’s in connecting with the people that we really understand and learn about a place. What you will find in this show is not just a sense of adventure, but also a desire to create sustainable impact everywhere we go. That impact isn’t a one-way street though, as we, together with the audiences, seek to be moved and changed by what we see, hear and know,” said Ho.

Premiering tonight, “Woman In Action” celebrates life and the countless adventures the world has to offer. Ho will take viewers on

Tom Rodriguez Photo from Instagram/@akosimangtomas

Olivia Quido-Co’s Beautiful Journey Lands in NYC

by MOMAR G. VISAYA / AJPress

OLIVIA Quido-Co, CEO and founder of the Los Angeles-based O Skin Med Spa did not actually dream to become where she is right now. As a young teen growing up in Manila, all she wanted was to have great skin.

“I used to have a lot of pimples, grabe. I didn’t know how to fix myself. So what I did was I went to school to fix my skin,” Quido-Co told the Asian Journal. “So what I want to do now is to inspire teenagers, that they don’t have to live with pimples and acne. If I was able to find a solution for myself, I can do that for teenagers as well.”

Today, her dream is to bring her products worldwide.

Already popular in California as a premiere spa destination, Quido-Co’s brand is slowly gaining global recognition due in part to her partnership with the Miss Universe organization. This is why she wants to use this platform to continue achieving her goals.

“I want to be able to take care of the skin, one person at a time, worldwide,” the trailblazing CEO quipped.

Miss O, as she is fondly called, was in New York recently with her team to launch her products at The Players Club in Gramercy Park. She asked her friends Jerry Sibal and Edwin Josue to stage a series of events and meet-and-greets culminating in a conversation about women empowerment.

The inspiring talk gathered Miss O, community leader, and philanthropist Loida Nicolas-Lewis and Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu in a free-wheeling discussion with TV host Boy Abunda.

Miss O shared that this is the fourth year that her

brand has been with the Miss Universe Organization as its official skincare brand and she feels thankful for the trust to take care of all these beautiful women all over the world.

She has been traveling for the past couple of years finding ways to open more doors for her brand. They are opening a Latin America headquarters in Paraguay as they venture into other neighboring countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. She has also been offered by duty-free shops in some of these Latin American countries.

“This adventure has been like super whirlwind because I never expected that it’s going to happen but it’s such a blessing that we were able to penetrate that market not only in the mainstream but worldwide as well,” QuidoCo said.

Before her New York

trip, she and her team were in Ecuador upon the invitation of the Ecuadorian government.

“I want our brand to be worldwide. That’s what I prayed for back in 2019, four years ago. I said I want to be global but I don’t know how. And then after two months, Miss Universe called me,” she shared, adding that her gratitude runs deep.

In 20 years of her experience in skincare, she realized two main skin problems for most.

“So it’s always been acne and melasma (skin discoloration) problems and I found a formula to fix that. It took me 14 months to make a prescription product,” she said. “Some of my products took two years. I take time to make sure that the product is really good before I release them.”

Her skin care tip for the younger ones?

She gave a quick response: sunblock.

“Just make sure that they apply sunblock every day, so it has to be a two-finger long sunblock. That’s super important para hindi magsag ang skin nila right away,” she said.

She should know as she started at such a young age.

“Bata pa lang ako, talagang mahilig na aka magpabeauty. I will save up all my allowance to buy beauty products pampaganda line lotions and powder,” she shared.

For now, the entrepreneur and beauty expert is starting to enjoy the fruit of her hardearned work for her brand to become globally trusted.

Armed with a computer programming degree, she studied to become an esthetician and master the anatomy of the skin.

With enough experience

Friends of the Philippines Society USA Inc held an event recently at The Players NYC where Asia’s King of Talk Boy Abunda engaged in a meaningful conversation with empowered women. From left: Boy Abunda, Loida Nicolas-Lewis, Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu, Olivia Quido-Co, NYC Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer, Edwin Josue and Jerry Sibal. Photo courtesy of Friends of the Philippines Society USA

Boy Abunda engaged powerful women - Loida Nicolas-Lewis, Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu, Olivia Quido-Co - in a conversation about empowerment.

AJPress photos by Momar G.

Community leader, businesswoman and philanthropist Loida Nicolas-Lewis with Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu, Olivia Quido-Co and Boy Abunda

Friends of the Philippines Society USA Inc founders Jerry Sibal and Edwin Josue with Ms. Olivia Quido-Co

Olivia Quido-Co’s beautiful journey...

under her belt, she started her own skincare line. Through the years, she developed a clientele that stood loyal to her products and luxurious facial treatments as she opened more doors for other people to discover her.

Asked if she had any secrets to her success, she smiled and said they were not really secrets.

“Put God first in everything that you do. It will bring you places

you’ve never ever dreamed of. Number two is you have to tithe, 10% of your income goes to church and that’s what I’ve been doing since 2007 until now,” she explained. “And then third is just go for your passion. Even though people will say it’s hard or it’s not. There are a lot of bumps along the way. But if you think you can do it, you can do it. You have to set yourself apart from others when you do things.” g

Heart Evangelista to stay abroad...

about her work commitments in Paris, adding she “does not mind” not being in the Philippines for a long time.

“It’s really a full job and I’ve never really been the type to stay home and wait. I’m very creative with my time and I like to be very productive with my time,” she stated. “I’m a working girl and I’m not ‘Ms. Hingi.’”

Evangelista then admitted missing her fans in the country but she explained “everybody has to work.”

“I miss all of you but dito muna ako (I am going to stay here for a while),” she told fans. “Hindi muna ako babalik.” (I am not returning [to the Philippines] for some time.)

At the latter part of the video, Evangelista read a question that asked, “When will you

come home?” — to which she answered by quoting Julia Roberts’ line in the 1999 film “Notting Hill”— “Indefinitely.”

Evangelista recently hinted about building a home in Paris, although it was not immediately stated if it is the same apartment the actress recently bought.

Meanwhile, speculations that Evangelista and Escudero have separated arose after fans noticed that she removed the surname Escudero from her Instagram profile name. Evangelista later admitted she has been dealing with “personal struggles,” although she did not state anything specifically.

The actress has also reportedly moved out of her shared home with Escudero and is now living in a condo unit, as per entertainment columnist Cristy Fermin. g

Gretchen lives out ‘Woman In...

a riveting journey of awesome discoveries, and at the same time, bringing to light the situation of each community.

With Ho’s combined passion for travel, adventure, and public service, the show delves into each escapade, sharing How To’s and challenges, featuring stories about different individuals and communities, and addressing social problems with a call to action.

“What I’ve found in my years working in the media

is that there are many young brilliant people all over the country just waiting for an opportunity. My show seeks to be a vehicle for that — to connect those people to local communities and to our audiences, in an effort to create, not just memories, but also, opportunities. I’m excited for this chance to be able to write and document some of the stories and take a more active part as producer of the show,” added Ho.

As an all-around and hardworking woman-in-

action, Ho has been on a blazing path from her college volleyball days up to her illustrious hosting career.

Honed by her dedication and passionate work, Ho has become an icon among this generation’s empowered women who weather the proverbial storms in pursuit of their life goals. The success of her recent campaign, #DonateABikeSaveAJob, helped a thousand families, with more than 1,500 bicycles donated to frontliners and workers for easier

transportation during the height of the pandemic. Truly a Woman in Action, Ho inspires women to stay true to their calling, find their courage and willpower, and forge their own path to success.

“Changing the world: one story, one action at a time,” Woman In Action encourages viewers to be socially responsible travelers and, through its featured stories, inspire people to take action and help entire communities. (ManilaTimes.net)

Lemonade for...

according to the investigative reports by Reuters and The Guardian in Bangkok July 14, 2017.

These companies are undermining, not only health governance but the health of the people around the world, all in the name of income and profits as they act as the purveyors of diseases, family disruption, misery, and deaths.

The report says “the investigations reveal multiple tobacco industry offensives across at least 14 countries in Africa, America, and Asia, including Vietnam, and how they subvert the treaty on multiple levels.

This poison called tobacco kills more than half a million annually in the ASEAN region, creates poverty among the users, and burdens the national economy with more than ten billion U.S. dollars in healthcare costs each year because of tobacco-related diseases and premature deaths.

These unconscionable

criminal companies and their principals ought to be prosecuted and held accountable for their crime against humanity.

* * *

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

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

Antoinette recalls heartbreak that made her...

performed her own version of UN SDGs.

Apart from impacting the lives of hundreds of thousands of beneficiaries, Taus has become so engrossed with CORA because she personally loves forests and oceans, which is why they organize many beach clean-ups.

“What can we do? We’re not scientists, we’re not experts. What can we possibly do to make a difference? Well, first and foremost, we can help by not litter, but we can actually clean up litter!” she enthused.

Advocating beyond cleaning

But cleaning is not a permanent solution, said Taus. “It’s just one of the first steps because we have so many problems out there, but also, recycling them is what brings us to a sustainable future and a circular economy.”

On the personal level, being ecofriendly, said Taus, also means a lifestyle makeover, which includes being physically active, going for cleaner choices like a plant-based diet, electric vehicles, and ethical shopping and investing.

Whether it is buying clothes or stocks, she said, “Don’t just buy just because it’s pretty; do more research and think where your money goes.”

Before investing, she advised asking if the companies are really into helping people and the planet and/or using

renewable energy.

“Investing in the right brands, and even in things that we purchase, the services that we actually choose, participate in, matters so much,” she stressed.

She also recommended slow traveling – “Take it slow, instead of taking the plane, you go by land, take the boat, go somewhere local, go for hidden gems –stay curious and choose experiences that promote exchange of learning between you and the community.”

Realizing that there are many waste management issues deeply embedded in communities, CORA recently partnered with barangays to encourage people to exchange recyclable materials for electronic cash.

CORA’s WoMangrove Warriors project in Leyte, meanwhile, mobilizes women to plant, grow and maintain mangroves to help communities, reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and increase biodiversity in Leyte since Leyte and Samar are two of the parts of the country worst hit by natural disasters.

“Sadly, the Philippines has been widely known as the, one of the, the numbers go up and down the charts… We always ranked as among the one, two, three when it comes to becoming impacted by climate change, typhoons and weather events. And 75% of deaths across the Southwest Pacific region is

actually being attributed to our country alone,” she claimed.

“And it’s really sad when you think of it because it’s not just the climate change, the weather. It’s lives being lost and taken because of the degraded land. Because of the air that is not protected.”

Likewise, CORA is into tapping communities to help produce sustainable and eco-friendly products. These include women making bags from used flour sacks acquired from bakeries across the country – and they help not just by cleaning the environment, but also through promoting livelihood and empowering women.

“To empower women does not mean that women are weak or are in need of help,” Taus clarified. “It means we acknowledge that we need women to take a big part in who and what we are today.”

Indeed, from her mom, Cora, who made Antoinette who she is today, to CORA, the organization that has engaged so many families, schools and businesses and is transforming them into what they are today and in the future, Antoinette has found a new mother to love and care for – the Earth.

“Taking care of our planet is not separate from taking care of ourselves and each other,” she mused.

“Everything is interconnected –intersectional!” g

Ms. Olivia Quido-Co welcomes her guests to the Beauty Day events held at The Players on Gramercy Park, a private social club founded in New York City by the noted 19th-century Shakespearean actor Edwin Booth.

Heart Evangelista Photo from Instagram/@iamhearte