Air traffic stress deepens but system holds steady
WASHINGTON, D.C. / LOS ANGELES – As the U.S. government shutdown stretched into its second week, the nation’s air transportation network remained under strain. Delays rippled across major airports, federal employees worked without pay, and pressure mounted on Congress to end the standoff.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the shutdown has “pushed an already strained workforce into crisis mode,” warning that fatigue and uncertainty among air traffic controllers could soon affect operations.
“They’re not just now thinking about the airspace,” Duffy said. “They’re thinking about how to pay the mortgage, keep the lights on, and feed their families.”
Controllers on duty, paychecks frozen Under federal law, air traffic controllers are “excepted” employees required to work during a shutdown. More than 13,000 controllers have gone unpaid since October 1.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) commended its members’ professionalism but said “each day without pay increases the risk of burnout.” The FAA, already short 3,500 to 3,800 controllers, has
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Shutdown 2025: what Filipino Americans need to know about stalled US services
by AJPress
is more than a distant debate in Washington: it affects federal workers’ paychecks, immigration services, veterans’ care, and the everyday functions of government that touch millions of families.
Why shutdowns happen
Each fiscal year begins on October 1. By law, Congress must pass 12 appropriations bills, or at least a continuing resolution, to keep agencies funded. Without them, the Antideficiency Act prohibits federal agencies from spending money they do not have. Shutdowns then force agencies to stop nonessential operations.
Ping Lacson steps down as Senate Blue Ribbon Chair
Senator Panfilo Lacson announces his decision to step down as chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, citing colleagues’ dissatisfaction as flood-control investigation continues under new executive and audit reviews
by AJPress
MANILA — Senator Panfilo
“Ping” Lacson announced on Sunday, October 5, his decision to step down as chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, saying he would relinquish the post once the Senate resumes session and he can formally submit his resignation in plenary.u PAGE 8
AFP chief Brawner denies coup rumors, warns destabilization would set nation back
by AJPress
MANILA — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Friday, October 4, 2025, denied reports that the military was conspiring with retired generals and religious groups to unseat President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., calling the allegations baseless and potentially destabilizing.
ciation of the Philippines (FOCAP), Brawner said he was “surprised” when he read an online article alleging a coup plot within the ranks.
“The coup rumors are not true. I myself was surprised when I saw the article,” Brawner said. “The Armed Forces remains professional, united, and loyal to the Constitution.” Brawner cautioned that any attempt to overthrow a sitting president would reverse the country’s democratic gains and disrupt economic stability. “We have been
Speaking at a forum hosted by the Foreign Correspondents Assou PAGE 4
Marcos appoints Remulla as new Ombudsman of the Philippines
by AJPress
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Secretary of Justice Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla as the new Ombudsman of the Republic of the Philippines, following the completion of Hon. Samuel R. Martires’seven-year term in July.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) confirmed the appointment on October 7, 2025, in an official statement highlighting Remulla’s record in justice reform and public accountability. The announcement came a day after the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) transmitted its shortlist of seven nominees to Malacañang for the president’s consideration.
“The administration remains firm in its commitment to fight corruption wherever it exists,”
u PAGE 2
Trump appoints Lee Lipton as new ambassador to PH
Lipton serves as the interim permanent representative to the U.S. Mission to the Organization of American States
LOS ANGELES – President Donald Trump has appointed Lee Lipton, the interim permanent representative to the United States Mission to the Organization of American States, as the new U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, the White House announced Wednesday (Thursday in Manila).
“Lee Lipton, of Florida, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United u PAGE 5
published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
ANOTHER DAY. Clear view from Navotas River as the sun sets on Wednesday, October 8. The weather bureau announced on October 7 the termination of the southwest monsoon (habagat) season, signaling the transition to the northeast monsoon (amihan) season and the end of the wet season in the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
LOS ANGELES — The United States entered a federal government shutdown on October 1, 2025, after Congress failed to pass either annual appropriations or a short-term extension. For Filipino Americans across the nation, the lapse
Senator Panfilo Lacson File photo courtesy of the Senate of the Philippines
Shutdown 2025: What Filipino Americans...
1 Office.
Since 1980, there have been 14 shutdowns of varying length. The longest, from December 2018 to January 2019, stretched 34 days and cost the economy billions.
The 12 appropriations bills that matter
The discretionary budget is divided into 12 bills. Together, they fund nearly all federal operations. If they are not passed, a shutdown begins.
1. Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration – USDA, FDA, rural housing, nutrition programs.
7. Interior and Environment – Department of the Interior, EPA, Forest Service, National Park Service.
8. Labor, Health and Human Services, Education (LHHS) –Department of Labor, HHS (CDC, NIH), Department of Education, job training, student aid.
9. Legislative Branch – Congress, Library of Congress, Government Accountability
10. Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (MilCon–VA) – Veterans’ health care, VA hospitals, military housing.
11. State and Foreign Operations (SFOPS) – State Department, USAID, foreign aid, UN contributions.
12. Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) – Department of Transportation (FAA, highways, transit), HUD housing and community development. Who is affected
• Essential workers: Active-duty military, Border Patrol, federal law enforcement, air traffic controllers, and hospital staff continue working without pay until funding resumes.
• Nonessential workers: Hundreds of thousands are furloughed and placed on temporary unpaid leave. Historically, back pay is granted after a shutdown ends.
• New in 2025: The White House has warned that agencies may consider permanent reductions in force if funding does not return soon.
Services that continue and those that slow
• Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid: Benefits continue, though new claims may face delays.
• Mail service: The U.S. Postal Service remains open, funded by postage and fees.
• Passports and visas: Services may continue through fees, but closures of federal facilities can cause slowdowns.
• Parks and museums: Many close or operate with limited staff.
• Economic data: Reports
like the monthly jobs report are suspended, affecting markets and policymakers.
The economic stakes Shutdowns ripple through the economy. Federal contractors face delayed payments, small businesses near federal facilities lose customers, and uncertainty spreads without timely government data. The White House Council of Economic Advisers estimates the economy could lose $15 billion in GDP for every week the shutdown continues. Programs like WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) could run out of funds within weeks.
For Filipino-American households, the impact is personal. Many are federal employees, health workers in VA hospitals, or families waiting on immigration and passport services. Even without exact counts, Filipinos are a significant presence in public service. Delays in paychecks or services hit these communities directly.
The broader significance For the public, the effects unfold gradually: slower passport processing, closed parks, delayed economic reports, and federal workers missing pay. For government, shutdowns show how essential the 12 appropriations bills are to daily life, and how political stalemate translates into real costs.
Until Congress and the White House strike a deal, the shutdown will continue, serving as another reminder of how Washington’s budget battles ripple through American families, including the Filipino community in Los Angeles and beyond. n
Marcos appoints Remulla
the Palace statement said. “As Ombudsman, Remulla is expected to uphold transparency, strengthen anti-corruption measures, and ensure that justice is administered fairly and efficiently.”
A public servant’s journey Remulla, 64, has served as the 59th Secretary of Justice since June 2022, leading efforts to modernize the justice system, decongest prisons, and accelerate case resolution nationwide. Before his Cabinet appointment, he built a decades-long career in public service spanning Congress, provincial government, and law practice.
A native of Cavite, Remulla hails from one of the province’s long-established political families. He is the son of the late Governor Juanito “Johnny” Remulla Sr., who served multiple terms as Cavite’s chief executive, and brother to Jonvic Remulla, now Secretary of the Interior and Local Government. Another brother, Gilbert Remulla, is a former lawmaker and broadcast journalist.
He earned his AB Political Science and Bachelor of Laws degrees from the University of the Philippines Diliman, passing the Bar in 1987. He began his public career as a Cavite provincial board member (1992–1995) and later represented his province in the House of Representatives for multiple terms, serving as Deputy Speaker and Senior Deputy Majority Leader. He also served as Governor of Cavite (2016–2019) before returning to Congress in 2019.
Remulla’s son, Crispin Diego “Ping” Remulla, currently represents Cavite’s 7th District in Congress, continuing the family’s political lineage.
As Justice Secretary, Remulla oversaw reforms aimed at improving prosecution integrity, digitizing case management, and expanding access to justice through regional
as new
service centers. His leadership drew national attention for its institutional focus and emphasis on accountability within the justice system.
A constitutional watchdog
The Office of the Ombudsman, created under Article XI of the 1987 Constitution, serves as the nation’s independent anti-corruption body tasked to investigate and prosecute public officials accused of wrongdoing. The Ombudsman’s powers include filing graft and corruption cases before the Sandiganbayan, initiating administrative sanctions, and recommending reforms to improve government integrity.
The post carries a non-renewable seven-year term, and the Ombudsman may only be removed through impeachment, underscoring the office’s independence from the executive and legislative branches.
Transition at the Department of Justice
With Remulla’s appointment, Justice Undersecretary Fredderick Vida has been designated Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the DOJ. Vida, who heads the department’s administrative and personnel services, will serve in that capacity until a permanent Secretary is named.
Malacañang Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that no shortlist has yet been submitted for the new DOJ chief. Remulla is expected to take his oath Thursday and assume the Ombudsman post Friday, according to the PCO.
This leaves the DOJ post officially vacant as of October 7, 2025, when Remulla stepped down from the Cabinet role.
Restoring public trust
At a time when public confidence in government institutions remains fragile, the appointment of a new Ombudsman carries significance beyond political succession. The Ombudsman’s indepen-
Ombudsman...
dence is central to holding officials accountable and ensuring that justice applies equally to all, regardless of rank or influence.
Observers note that Remulla’s move from the DOJ to the country’s top anti-graft post will test his ability to balance institutional experience with impartial oversight. How he handles politically sensitive cases could shape both his legacy and the credibility of the Marcos administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda for transparent governance.
“There will be no sacred cows, no exemptions, and no excuses,” the PCO statement added. “Public office is a public trust, and those who betray it will be held accountable.”
Senate reaction
Members of the Senate welcomed the appointment, calling it a step toward stronger accountability.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III described Remulla as a “principled and courageous public servant,” while Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said his familiarity with corruption cases and the justice system “will serve the country well.”
Both lawmakers said the new Ombudsman must demonstrate independence to rebuild confidence in public institutions.
Integrity and the rule of law
Beyond personalities, the strength of the Ombudsman’s office rests on its independence and the public’s faith in its impartiality. How the new Ombudsman steers that mandate will determine whether Filipinos see the promise of a Bagong Pilipinas not only in policy but in the consistent and fair application of the law.
President Marcos reaffirmed that transparency, fairness, and the rule of law will remain guiding principles of his administration’s pursuit of a just and responsive government that “truly serves the Filipino people.”
DOWNTIME. Fishing boats are docked in Tanza, Navotas City, known as the fishing capital of the Philippines, on Thursday, October 9. Fishers navigate between the waterways of Navotas and Malabon through the floodgate, which is lowered during high tide or inclement weather to prevent flooding. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
OATH OF OFFICE. Former Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla (left) takes his oath of office as Ombudsman, at the session hall of the Supreme Court in Manila on Thursday, Oct. 9. Remulla was sworn in by acting Chief Justice Marvic Leonen. PNA photo by Yancy Lim
US automakers struggle to stay on course as EV subsidies end Palace insists unprogrammed funds necessary amid calls for its removal
by AJPress
WASHINGTON / DETROIT
— America’s electric vehicle (EV) ambitions are facing a reality check. The federal $7,500 EV tax credit expired on September 30, ending a key incentive that had fueled sales and investment across the auto industry.
The Trump administration’s decision to let the program lapse is part of its broader rollback of clean-energy subsidies. Industry leaders warn the shift could slow adoption and weaken U.S. competitiveness in the global EV market.
GM drops lease workaround General Motors confirmed on October 8 that it abandoned a plan to capture remaining tax credits through dealer leases after criticism from lawmakers and legal experts. The company’s finance arm had planned to buy EVs from dealer inventory before the deadline, claim the credits, and pass savings on to customers.
GM now says it will fund lease incentives internally through October. Ford has not disclosed if it will pursue a similar approach.
“We continue to support our customers during this transition,” a GM spokesperson said, adding that the company remains committed to electrification.
Tesla raises lease prices and trims costs
Following the loss of the tax credit, Tesla raised U.S. lease rates for all models. Monthly payments for the Model Y now range from $529 to $599, and the Model 3 from $429 to $759, according to Reuters.
To maintain affordability, Tesla launched new “Standard” versions of both vehicles with fewer features and shorter range. Analysts say the move shows how deeply the tax credit had shaped EV pricing.
Honda halts Acura EV as demand weakens
Honda Motor Co. has discontinued its Acura
ZDX electric crossover, built at GM’s Spring Hill, Tennessee plant. The company cited low demand and plans to shift to its in-house RSX EV platform by 2026.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Energy is reviewing more than $1.1 billion in grants previously awarded to GMand Stellantis for EV production. If rescinded, the funding cuts could delay major plant expansions.
States continue to push forward
While federal support ends, several states are expanding their own incentive programs. California, New York, and Connecticut continue to promote EV adoption. Connecticut recently raised its CHEAPR rebate to as much as $4,000 for new battery EVs. Globally, China’s BYD and Europe’s Volkswagen Group are increasing output with strong policy backing, further pressuring U.S. automakers.
MANILA — Malacañang has rejected recent renewed calls by lawmakers to zero out the P250 billion unprogrammed appropriations in the proposed 2026 national budget, saying the funds are crucial for government programs and are subject to strict oversight.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said at a press briefing on Wednesday, October 8, that the funds serve as a reserve for urgent and unforeseen expenses, such as emergencies, and are not automatically disbursed.
“Hindi po ito nagagasta nang basta-basta,” Castro told reporters.
“Kahit po ito ay nasa unprogrammed appropriation, ang ibig pong sabihin nito ay hindi po ito agad-agad makukuha kung wala pong sapat na dokumento," she added.
Unprogrammed appropriations are funds authorized in the national budget that are treated as standby reserves. This means it must only be
released once the government meets specific revenue targets, such as securing new loans or tax collections, or upon special presidential authorization.
However, large allocations for standby funds have become controversial under the Marcos administration. Critics say the mechanism allows the administration to stash away money for pre-planned programs with less transparency and greater political discretion than regular, itemized budgets.
In a privilege speech yesterday, Rep. Chel Diokno (Akbayan) urged Congress to reduce the allocation to zero. He said the P250 billion was not a necessary contingency fund, but was instead being earmarked for "large, planned, and regular programs" that should be subjected to the rigorous scrutiny of line-item budgeting.
When asked about Diokno's call on Wednesday, Castro directly rejected the feasibility of
zeroing out the appropriation. The funds, Castro said, are under “conditional implementation,” meaning agencies cannot access them unless specific requirements are met.
"Hindi po ba may mga nagrireklamo na hindi raw sila nabibigyan o nari-release-an ng mga pondo?" Castro said.
"Iyan po ang ginagawa ng Pangulo dahil ito po ay nasa ilalim ng conditional implementation. Ibig sabihin po, pinangangalagaan ng Pangulo ang pondo ng bayan," she added. Growing calls to remove unprogrammed funds
The Senate has the same stance as Diokno and earlier called to remove the standby funds from the spending plan for next year.
Senate President Tito Sotto previously bared plans to eliminate all unprogrammed funds from the 2026 budget, calling them “sources of questionable insertions.” He and Senate finance panel chair Sen. Sheru PAGE 5 u PAGE 5
Shutdown fallout widens: Air traffic stress...
PAGE 1
suspended training and certification programs, deepening shortages.
Flight delays spread nationwide
According to Reuters and The Guardian, staffing shortfalls caused more than 3,000 to 6,000 flight delays over recent days, with bottlenecks at Chicago O’Hare, Denver, Newark, Boston, Dallas, Philadelphia, and Nashville.
At O’Hare, average delays reached about 41 minutes, and Newark arrivals were periodically capped to manage congestion.
The FAA said flight safety “has not been compromised,” though reduced flow controls remain in place to maintain safe separation standards. While industry stress is growing, Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), said the shutdown “has not yet created significant disruptions” to commercial operations. Walsh added that, unlike previous shutdowns, recruitment of new air traffic controllers continues — a sign of institutional resilience.
Burbank tower declared “ATC Zero” In Southern California, the control tower at Hollywood
Burbank Airport—a key regional hub serving the San Fernando Valley, Glendale, and Pasadena—was declared “ATC Zero” on October 6 when controllers were unavailable for nearly six hours, from 4:15 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Pilots operated under visual flight rules while the Southern California TRACON center in San Diego managed limited traffic. Flights were delayed up to four hours before normal staffing resumed Tuesday. The FAA reported no safety breach but acknowledged that staffing margins are “extremely thin.”
Small communities face service risks
The shutdown also threatens the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, which subsidizes flights to rural and remote areas.
Secretary Duffy and Department of Transportation officials said the program is vital to keeping small-town America connected and warned that if funds run out—projected by October 12—some regions could lose their only commercial air link.
The DOT has cautioned airlines that reimbursements may be delayed until Congress restores funding.
Airlines urge modernization, not just relief
Major U.S. carriers, through Airlines for America,
have called on the FAA to fasttrack “quick-win” modernization efforts—upgrading outdated radar, communications, and software systems—to reduce vulnerabilities exposed by the shutdown.
Ripple effects across airports and agencies
At San Francisco International Airport, roughly 1,300 federal employees—including FAA, TSA, and customs personnel—are working without pay, underscoring how the shutdown’s reach extends far beyond control towers.
President Donald Trump has vowed to “streamline” government programs once funding resumes, while Congress remains locked in partisan debate. Lawmakers have yet to approve a continuing resolution to reopen federal agencies.
If the shutdown continues past mid-October—when most federal workers will miss their first paycheck—analysts warn of deeper absenteeism and mounting operational strain.
The FAA maintains that safety remains intact, yet experts caution that sustained uncertainty could erode morale and system stability. As one former aviation official noted, the skies remain safe— but the people keeping them that way are running on empty. (AJPress)
AFP chief Brawner denies coup rumors...
PAGE 1
through that before,” he said, referring to past uprisings that weakened investor confidence and divided the ranks. “We do not want to go back to those dark years.”
Appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on July 21, 2023, Brawner succeeded Gen. Andres Centino as AFP Chief of Staff in a changeof-command ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo. Before assuming the top post, he served as Commanding General of the Philippine Army, AFP spokesperson, and Commandant of Cadets at the Philippine Military Academy, where he earned recognition for his focus on discipline and professionalism. He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Makatao” Class of 1989.
AFP denies conspiracy but confirms outreach from retired officers
While dismissing coup allegations, Brawner acknowledged that some retired military officers had attempted to influence active-duty personnel by calling on them to withdraw support from the president.
“There were indeed calls to withdraw support,” he said in a separate interview. “But our soldiers are well-disciplined. Those calls did not gain ground.”
He emphasized that no ac-
tive unit had expressed disloyalty and that the AFP’s chain of command remained intact. “The AFP is stronger and more cohesive than ever. We are focused on our constitutional duty to protect the people and the state,” he said.
Palace and defense officials echo message of unity
Malacañang dismissed the coup rumors as “dangerous disinformation” intended to sow distrust between the president and the military. In a statement, the Palace affirmed that President Marcos Jr. continues to have the full trust and confidence of the AFP.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. also rejected the speculation, warning that rumor-mongering could undermine national security and morale within the ranks. “The Department of National Defense and the AFP are working together to preserve stability and public trust,” Teodoro said in a separate press statement.
Background: Political tension and misinformation
The coup speculation surfaced amid heightened public scrutiny over alleged irregularities in multibillion-peso flood-control projects. Analysts note that similar misinformation campaigns have appeared in previous administrations, often during periods of political tension.
The AFP’s Public Affairs Of-
fice said it continues to monitor attempts to spread fabricated stories through social media and unverified blogs. “The peddling of fake news about coups and military unrest is an affront to our democracy,” it said in a statement.
A history of vigilance
Coup rumors have long shadowed Philippine politics, from the 1986 People Power uprising to failed military uprisings in the early 2000s. Experts say today’s AFP leadership, largely professionalized and trained after the Edsa era, is less likely to support extraconstitutional actions.
Retired officers who still enjoy influence in civic and veterans’ groups may attempt to shape public opinion, but analysts point out that the military institution itself has grown more cautious about political involvement.
In perspective
For now, Brawner’s public denial seeks to project calm and assure Filipinos that the military remains an anchor of stability amid political noise.
“We serve the people, not politics,” he said. “The Armed Forces stands by democracy and the rule of law.” His statement underscores the AFP’s commitment to civilian authority and the democratic process, principles that remain vital to maintaining stability and public trust. n
Palace insists unprogrammed funds...
win Gatchalian have agreed to aim for “100 percent no unprogrammed funds,” with only foreign-assisted components possibly retained.
The controversy over unprogrammed appropriations is playing out against a backdrop of investigations that have revealed billions of funds meant for flood control projects have
been misused in past years.
This, according to lawmakers, was made possible through covert budget insertions done behind closed doors by small committees.
Growing awareness of the anomalies in budget insertions has prompted critics to call massive UA allocations a possible alternative for insertions.
In arguing for its removal, an-
other Akbayan lawmaker, Rep. Perci Cendaña, earlier pointed out that 70% of UA allocations in the 2026 budget are for infrastructure projects.
“If the unprogrammed appropriations stays, then it might cast a shadow on our efforts to cleanse the stain of corruption from our national budget," Cendaña said Tuesday. (Cristina Chi/Philstar.com)
Trump appoints Lee Lipton as new...
PAGE 1
States of America to the Republic of the Philippines,” according to the White House announcement posted under nominations and appointments on Oct. 8.
After Lipton is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, he will replace MaryKay Carlson, who has served as ambassador since 2022.
As interim permanent representative to the U.S. Mission to the Organization of American States, Lipton manages staff operations, financial resources and interagency coordination to advance U.S. foreign policy priorities in the Western Hemisphere, according to the U.S. State Department website.
“In this role, he supports U.S. engagement on a range of regional challenges, including the deteriorating security situation in Haiti, and efforts to counter malign influence—
particularly from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)— within the Inter-American System,” the website states.
25 years of private sector experience
With 25 years of private sector experience, Lipton offers a strong business-to-business perspective to U.S. engagement at the Organization of American States.
Before entering public service, Lipton owned an apparel business in New York City, overseeing the design, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of licensed collections for global brands, including Calvin Klein, St. John Knits and Guess.
Lipton, who holds a bachelor’s degree from Bryant University, later transitioned into the hospitality industry, owning several oceanfront restaurants in Florida.
“Lipton’s results-driven mindset and a strategic ap-
proach, shaped by decades of entrepreneurial leadership, informs his work at the U.S. Mission to the Organization of American States, where he champions economic engagement, institutional efficiency and multilateral cooperation in support of regional stability and prosperity,” according to the U.S. State Department website. (Inquirer.net)
US automakers struggle to stay on
PAGE 4
The road ahead Analysts expect EV sales in the U.S. to decline in 2026 before stabilizing later in the de-
cade. Automakers are turning to hybrids and plug-in hybrids to balance costs and consumer demand.
Without federal incentives,
course...
the U.S. auto industry faces a slower, costlier journey toward electrification while global competitors continue to accelerate.
LESS THAN 2 MONTHS TO GO. Holiday decorations are all over a mall in Fairview, Quezon City on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. There are 80 days left before Christmas Day. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
Lee Lipton
Photo from the U.S. State Department
FeAtures OPiniOn
The US law that tried to send Filipinos home: Remembering the Repatriation Act of 1935
A
reflection on a 1935 law that sought to erase Filipinos from America’s landscape, and what it reveals about belonging, identity, and the unfinished work of justice
FILIPINO American History Month is often celebrated through food, music, and stories of migration and triumph. But history is not only about victories. It is also about the struggles that shaped our community’s path in America. One such struggle is tied to a little-known law, the Repatriation Act of 1935, which reveals how fragile Filipino lives once were in the eyes of the United States.
When the Philippines was reclassified as a Commonwealth under the Tydings–McDuffie Act, Filipinos in the U.S. suddenly became aliens overnight. Migration from the islands was cut to a trickle, with only fifty individuals allowed each year. Yet Filipinos still could not become U.S. citizens. They were in
limbo, needed in the fields and canneries, yet unwanted in the social fabric of American life.
The Repatriation Act of 1935 offered “free” one-way passage for Filipinos who wished to return to the islands. But it came with a catch: once you have left, you have lost the right to come back. In effect, it was an invi-
Corruption scandal: Endangering investments in the Philippines
FOR those of us working in the foreign service, what is happening in our country
today is so frustrating, to say the least. Here we are vigorously promoting the Philippines like hell, competing with our Asian neighbors for a “slice of the pie” – only to be confronted with this horrific corruption scandal the country is facing.
Countries are considering suspending funding for a bridge project linked
to the scandal, citing concerns over governance and transparency. Other bilateral donors and aid agencies are quietly reviewing their exposure. What begins with a single delayed project can quickly cascade: procurement pipelines slow down and lenders hesitate to approve new funding tranches.
tation to disappear quietly from the American landscape during a time of economic depression and rising racial hostility. Only about 2,000 Filipinos accepted the offer
out of an estimated 45,000 to 50,000 then living in the United States. Many were Sakadas or Manongs, young single men recruited for low-
Ctalk
Cito
“THE enemy of my enemy is my friend; the friend of my enemy is my enemy.” – Ancient proverb
As expected, everything related to the DPWH ghost projects and corruption has turned into a free-for-all. As I wrote before, some individuals are not going to go quietly to prison or let themselves be thrown under the bus.
So now we can observe sev-
eral people in Congress, the Senate, the executive body and DPWH making appearances and statements for or against each other and “the suspects and suspected” in the DPWH fund and ghost projects scam.
In the public’s eye, they are all guilty directly, complicit or by omission but we have no details or evidence to back us up. For that it is worth paying attention to what all the “players” are saying, connect the dots and you’ll discover the connection and confirm what used to be rumors or social media banter.
You will also learn that those who claim to be or appear to be are not so. Party-list groups received P150 million a year from DPWH even though they have no physical jurisdiction or constituency, said a DPWH official.
Those on the right played along or tolerated the political chess moves of Malacañang to remove VP Sara and, as a result, money poured into congressional districts. Those in the Left who aligned with Martin to oust Sara are now behaving as anti-Marcos, perhaps to remind
Publication of a Client’s Material does not constitute an a greement to continue publication. Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AJPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may suffer by reason
babe’s eye view
Babe Romualdez
Beltran
The US law that tried to send Filipinos...
wage agricultural work who faced harsh labor conditions and racial exclusion. The vast majority chose to endure hardship rather than give up their chance to build lives here. Their determination became the foundation of Filipino communities in Stockton, Los Angeles, Seattle, and beyond — communities that still flourish today.
Though the law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1940, the scars remained. Families were separated, opportunities lost, and the idea of Filipino “disposability” was written into law.
The 1935 Repatriation Act did not stand alone. It was part of a longer arc of exclusion and eventual recognition that defined Filipino migration to the United States.
From exclusion to recognition, Filipino migration in America followed a long struggle through shifting laws and attitudes. It began with the Tydings–McDuffie Act of 1934, which reclassified Filipinos as aliens and capped annual immigration at fifty. A year later came the Repatriation Act of 1935, offering free passage back to the Philippines but stripping returnees of the right
PAGE 6
PBBM that if Martin goes, Bongbong goes. Some are openly implicating President Bongbong Marcos in the passing of the flawed 2025 budget.
Those who attacked Martin and Zaldy defended PBBM. Those who attacked PBBM were clearly aligned in the past with Martin and Zaldy during the “Impeach Sara” campaign and the notorious distribution of ayuda tagged as “7-7-7-million” to join the speaker’s caravan.
By and large, the general statements had a semblance of truth bordering on confession or admission of complicity, omission or alliance. More interesting is that the Left and the Right are “not clean and bright.”
* * *
After watching all the investigations concerning DPWH ghost projects, scams and suspected corruption in the legislative and executive branches of government, I was reminded of an old joke, as well as the movie of the late great Robert Redford.
Many authors and politicians have used the joke but historically speaking, the joke was apparently popular in sa-
to re-enter. The U.S. Supreme Court struck the law down in 1940, yet its effects lingered.
During World War II, more than 250,000 Filipinos served under the U.S. flag, only to see the Rescission Acts of 1946 revoke their promised veterans’ benefits.
It was not until the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 that the structural barriers of exclusion began to fall, allowing new generations of Filipinos to enter universities, professions, and public life on equal terms. Decades later, the veterans equity movement of the 1990s through 2010s brought partial recognition long after many had already passed away.
Filipino American history’s continuing chapter
Marking Filipino American History Month means remembering not only the parades and celebrations but also the injustices. The Repatriation Act reminds us that Filipino Americans fought not just for visibility but for the right to stay. It also teaches us that exclusion can come dressed in the language of choice.
Nearly a century later, we live in a different America - one where Filipinos are
Free for all...
loons and bars from the gold rush to the roaring 20s onwards. The story goes:
“During a lavish gathering of very rich individuals, a millionaire approached an attractive woman and asked: ‘Madame, if you were offered a million pounds, would you consider spending the weekend with me at my country estate and have sex?’
“The woman was shocked and mortified by such a proposition but soon collected herself and replied that a million pounds was a substantial amount of money and that she might consider a tryst with the rich man.
“After that, the rich man asked, ‘But what if I you were offered 500,000 pounds instead of a million, would you still consider the proposal?’ After some thought, the woman hesitated and replied, ‘Half a million pounds is still a fortune and perhaps worth considering.’
“Intrigued, the rich man dared to go lower and asked the lady, ‘But what if the offer was only a thousand pounds for a weekend, would you still entertain my offer?’
“The woman’s face turned red and fumed: ‘How dare
Corruption scandal: Endangering...
doctors, nurses, teachers, entrepreneurs, artists, public servants, and military officers. We have built homes, raised families, and contributed to every facet of American life. But the lesson of 1935 remains. Our place here was not given; it was earned through sacrifice and courage.
Many modern-day Filipinos proudly say that everything they have achieved is the result of their own merit. That is true to a point, but also incomplete. The opportunities we enjoy today exist because barriers once written into law were dismantled, laws that denied Filipinos equal access, movement, and recognition.
Before those barriers fell, Filipinos faced prohibitions not only on citizenship but on marriage and mobility. In several states, including California, Washington, and Nevada, Filipinos were barred from marrying white partners and sometimes had to travel to neighboring states where such marriages were legal. The Perez v. Sharp (1948) decision in California overturned that ban nearly two decades before the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark Loving v. Virginia (1967) ruling, which made interracial
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you! What do you think I am, a prostitute?!!! The man replied: ‘Madam, we already settled that, we are merely deciding on the price.’”
I hesitated to use that story but as I listened to the ongoing investigations regarding the DPWH ghost projects and “alleged” corruption inside the legislative and executive branches of government, I believe the public has already settled or decided who the “prostitutes” are.
The only thing people are squabbling about is who is the most guilty and how much did they get as the project proponent, contractor, sub-contractor and DPWH engineer.
Someone suggested that the investigators should not waste their time asking “the suspects and the suspected” who is higher on the food chain of corruption. Or asking each respondent who else is involved and how much did they receive.
Instead, the investigators should just ask “WHO DID NOT RECEIVE MONEY?” Or who had no dealings or association with the corruptors and the corrupted?
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The Philippines finds itself at a precarious crossroads, with a broadening corruption scandal surrounding flood control and infrastructure projects dominating headlines – triggering public outrage and drawing scrutiny from donors and investors alike. What initially appeared as a domestic political crisis has evolved into a reputational challenge with direct implications on foreign direct investments, international aid and the country’s broader economic trajectory.
For the business and finance community, this episode is not merely a governance story: it cuts right to the heart of how risks are priced, how projects are financed and whether the Philippines can sustain its narrative as one of Southeast Asia’s rising investment destinations.
International capital flows need to be protected. For multilateral development banks, bilateral donors and private financiers alike, the primary question is not simply “What is the return?” but “Can I trust the money to be used as intended?”
Revelations of kickbacks, substandard works and inflated contracts in government-funded flood control projects directly undermine that trust. Once credibility is shaken, the cost is not only reputational. Donors may suspend disbursements, impose stricter conditionalities or redirect funding to countries with more predictable governance frameworks. Private investors may demand higher risk premiums or shift capital to competing destinations like Vietnam or Indonesia.
This reputational contagion extends beyond aid – several foreign firms operating in the Philippines already felt the effects of ongoing graft probes. Heightened uncertainty is forcing multinationals to reassess whether the Philippine market justifies added risks. For those weighing expansion, the scandal could tip the balance toward postponement or cancellation.
Investors in emerging markets are quick to react to risks. Political and governance scandals translate into higher spreads on sovereign debt, greater volatility in equity markets and a weaker peso as confidence
ebbs. This is no small matter for the Philippines, which depends on both remittance inflows and foreign capital to balance its current account.
If international financial institutions perceive systemic weaknesses in procurement and anti-corruption enforcement, ratings agencies may flag governance as a structural risk, raising borrowing costs for both government and private issuers, squeezing fiscal space and corporate expansion plans alike.
In a region where capital moves quickly, perception matters as much as fundamentals. Investors ask not only whether the Philippines is growing – but whether it is being governed properly.
Another under-appreciated consequence is the alignment of this scandal with environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks. Much of the corruption has been uncovered in flood control and water management projects – sectors central to climate resilience.
Donors are increasingly deploying capital with ESG criteria. If the Philippines becomes perceived as a governance liability precisely in those sectors, it risks exclusion from the fastest-growing streams of concessional and green financing. For private investors, association with projects tainted by corruption also carries reputational risk that many boards will not tolerate.
At home, the scandal threatens to stall infrastructure rollout – a backbone of the government’s growth strategy. Delayed projects mean lost jobs, fewer contracts for suppliers and weaker overall economic gains.
Moreover, corruption diverts scarce fiscal resources. Every peso siphoned away through kickbacks is a peso deprived for education, health or legitimate infrastructure, eventually eroding productivity, widening inequality and suppressing domestic demand – all of which matter to investors assessing market fundamentals.
What needs to happen next is key because the damage is real, yet not irreparable. The Philippines can still turn this crisis into an opportunity for reform through 1) swift, credible and independent investiga-
tions. Business and financial partners are watching not only what the government says, but what it does. An independent anti-corruption body with prosecutorial power would reassure donors that accountability is not cosmetic; 2) full transparency. Procurement records, contract details and audit reports should be made public. Sunlight is the best disinfectant – and also the most persuasive argument to skeptical investors that the government has nothing to hide and 3) visible accountability. Symbolic prosecutions will not suffice. High-level convictions, restitution of stolen funds and protection of whistleblowers would send the clearest message that the Philippines is serious about changing course.
For President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., this a test of leadership, with the scandal presenting both peril and possibility. Peril, because mishandling could bolster perceptions that his administration is unwilling or unable to confront corruption. Possibility, because success in restoring trust could provide the lasting legacy his presidency seeks.
The unfolding corruption scandal has already eroded confidence and frozen some capital flows. Left unchecked, it could raise risk premiums, drive away investors and curtail access to international aid just when the Philippines needs it most.
Yet the same crisis can be a catalyst. If the government acts decisively, engages transparently and builds enduring institutions, the Philippines can emerge stronger – with renewed investor trust and reinforced governance.
For the business and finance community, the message must be clear that there is decisiveness in making necessary reforms – because this moment of crisis can actually open a window of opportunity. Clearly, we must seize the moment before the moment seizes us. (Philstar.com)
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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The US law that tried to send Filipinos...
marriage legal nationwide. Without these rulings, many Filipino American families and lineages, including those formed through Filipino-white marriages in the postwar years, would never have been legally recognized.
Without these reforms, many of the freedoms and opportunities Filipino Americans enjoy today would have remained out of reach. Our appreciation deepens when we remember that what feels ordinary now - citizenship, mobility, marriage, equality before the law was once im-
possible.
In an era when immigration and belonging are again debated, the Repatriation Act stands as a warning from history. It asks whether a society can truly be just when belonging depends on convenience, and whether compassion can endure when fear dictates policy.
To those who now call America home, this story is both mirror and measure. It reminds us to cherish the rights and freedoms that earlier generations fought to secure, to defend the dignity of those still seeking a place at
Free for all...
from a lion or a bear.
Those questions are less incriminating or damning for the doomed. Pressuring the respondents to name names and point out the guilty is certainly scary for contractors and DPWH personnel because it’s like signing your own death sentence. They don’t want a target on their back, endanger their family or risk retaliation and therefore getting the truth out of them is like pulling teeth
It is unfair to the remnant of innocent legislators and DPWH employees to be dragged and marked with suspicion without any opportunity to prove their innocence. With everybody hunting down “the suspects and the suspected,” chances are the innocents will languish under a cloud of suspicion and judgment for a very long time. By providing a list of members of Congress, the Senate,
the table, and to never take for granted the doors that were once closed to our ancestors. Looking back at 1935 allows us to see how far we have come and how vigilance, empathy, and conscience must continue to guide us. To honor our heritage is to carry forward the lessons of those who came before us, who stood their ground with quiet dignity, and who believed that justice and belonging were worth the struggle. May this remembrance move us toward understanding, wisdom, and reform in our institutions, in our history, and in ourselves. (AJPress)
past and present and asking “who did not receive any stolen money,” the investigators can immediately shorten the list of persons of interest. (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.
E-mail: utalk2ctalk@gmail.com
Ping Lacson steps down as Senate Blue Ribbon...
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Lacson said he is preparing his resignation letter after learning that several colleagues had expressed dissatisfaction with how he was handling the committee’s hearings on alleged irregularities in government flood-control projects.
“Rightly or wrongly, when quite a number of them have expressed disappointment over how I’m handling the flood-control project anomalies, I thought it’s time for me to step aside in favor of another member who they think can handle the committee better,” Lacson said.
Hearings on hold
Before his announcement, Lacson had suspended the Blue Ribbon hearings, citing delays in the release of key documents from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), as well as conflicts with budget deliberations and Commission on Appointments sessions.
He said the inquiry will remain suspended “until further notice.” Lacson earlier invited former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co to testify, aiming to dispel claims that the hearings were selective . No successor yet
As of press time, no successor has been named. Senate leadership is expected to decide once Lacson’s resignation is formally manifested in plenary. He acknowledged that committee chairs “serve at the pleasure of one’s colleagues.”
When asked whether Senator Rodante Marcoleta – who previously chaired the Blue
Ribbon Committee – might return to the post, Lacson replied: “If he is elected by a majority of senators, it will be his. What can I do?”
Allegations under review
The Senate probe is examining flood-control contracts valued at over P545 billion since 2022, including alleged ghost, substandard, and overpriced projects in Bulacan and Central Luzon. Witnesses have claimed kickbacks and manipulated bidding, though those named in testimony have denied wrongdoing.
Several institutional responses are underway:
• The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), created under Executive Order No. 94, is conducting an executive-branch probe on public-works anomalies.
• The Commission on Audit (COA) has begun fraud audits, particularly in Bulacan, following complaints filed through Sumbong sa Pangulo.
• The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) reduced funding for flood-control projects in its 2026 proposal while investigations continue.
• The Department of Justice (DOJ) issued immigration lookout bulletin orders (ILBOs) on individuals linked to the projects, while the Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed it is verifying travel records.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said both the Senate and the ICI should “let the evidence lead” and ensure accountability “based on due process.” Lacson’s announcement comes as the Senate faces what has been described as a
period of “flux,” with committee alignments and political blocs reassessing their positions. His anticipatory decision – made before any formal call for his removal – signals both political awareness and sensitivity to the mood within the chamber.
Analysts note that the next Blue Ribbon chair’s leadership could determine whether the flood-control inquiry maintains its pace and credibility or becomes bogged down in political maneuvering. The Blue Ribbon Committee, historically the Senate’s watchdog on government accountability, once again stands at a crossroads between oversight and internal politics.
Whether the hearings continue with vigor or stall under new leadership, the challenge remains: to prove that the Senate’s pursuit of transparency can endure even as its own leadership shifts beneath it.
Shifting ground in the Senate Lacson’s announcement comes as the Senate undergoes what has been described as a period of “flux,” with leadership adjustments and committee alignments still being discussed. His decision to step down, made before the resumption of session, reflects both internal pressures and an effort to maintain collegiality within the chamber.
The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee will remain in transition until a new chair is chosen. Lawmakers have said the investigation into flood-control projects will continue under Senate oversight, alongside the ongoing audit and executive reviews. n
DOWNTIME. Fishing boats are docked in Tanza, Navotas City, known as the fishing capital of the Philippines, on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. Fishers navigate between the waterways of Navotas and Malabon through the floodgate, which is lowered during high tide or inclement weather to prevent flooding. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
Philippines eyes hosting of WTA 125 Manila Open in 2026
The Philippines is in talks with the Women’s Tennis Association to stage the WTA 125 Manila Open in 2026, potentially bringing top-tier women’s tennis to Manila for the first time
by AJPress
MANILA
— The Philippines is in active discussions with the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) to stage a WTA 125 tournament in 2026, a move that would bring the country its first event at this level of professional women’s tennis. The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) confirmed that negotiations are underway for the competition, with tentative dates set for January 26 to February 1, 2026.
PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio said the effort goes beyond hosting matches, emphasizing its role in inspiring young players and raising the country’s standing in the global tennis community.
The PSC and the Philippine Tennis Association (PhilTA) are collaborating to meet WTA standards, including the requirement of at least three premium-quality courts. Options being considered include upgrading the Rizal Memorial Tennis Cen-
ter in Manila and developing a new Philippine Tennis Center at New Clark City in Tarlac. Officials also want to make Rizal’s facilities more accessible to the public as part of wider grassroots development.
As part of preparations, the Philippines will host an ITF J30 junior tournament from late November to December 7, 2025, which will feature players aged 13 to 18 from across Asia. The event is seen as a stepping stone to the proposed Manila Open.
A brief history of the WTA The Women’s Tennis Association was founded in 1973 by American tennis legend Billie Jean King, who championed equal opportunities and pay for women in the sport. That same year, the US Open became the first Grand Slam to offer equal prize money to men and women.
Today, the WTA is the principal organizing body for women’s professional tennis, overseeing the global calendar, rankings, and
tournaments from entry-level 125 events to elite WTA 1000 competitions. It represents more than 1,600 players from nearly 90 countries.
What is a WTA 125 tournament?
A WTA 125 tournament is a mid-level professional event just below the main WTA Tour categories of 250, 500, and 1000. Champions earn 125 ranking points, giving players a significant boost in global standings. These tournaments attract rising stars seeking to break into the higher tiers and experienced players looking for match play between larger events.
Unlike Grand Slams, which are anchored at historic venues, WTA 125s rotate across cities worldwide and are staged throughout the year. Recent hosts include Taipei, Suzhou, Ningbo, Paris, Angers, Bari, Colima, and San Luis Potosí.
Prize money is smaller compared to top-tier events, but the tournaments play an essential role in player devel-
opment and exposure.
Local spotlight
A Manila-based WTA tournament would give fans the rare chance to watch Alexandra “Alex” Eala, the country’s top women’s player, compete at home.
Eala recently advanced to the quarterfinals of the Suzhou Open in China, underscoring her growing presence on the world stage.
Requirements for hosting
For the bid to move forward, organizers must secure funding, sponsorships, and broadcast coverage while ensuring venues meet WTA standards. Analysts say the lasting impact will depend not only on a successful launch in 2026 but also on how the event sustains momentum for Philippine tennis in the years ahead.
If realized, the WTA 125 Manila Open would mark a breakthrough moment for Philippine sports, combining international recognition with a platform for future champions to emerge. n
Alex Eala beams after winning the Guadalajara 125 Open in Mexico in September 2025, her first WTA 125 title. The Philippines is now in talks to host a WTA 125 tournament in Manila in 2026. Photo source : Alex Eala Instagram
Kiko Barzaga calls for Marcos resignation, testing limits of ‘meow’ politics in Congress
One of the youngest members of Congress takes on the establishment, turning his quirky “meow” persona into a symbol of Gen Z defiance and digital-era politics in the Philippines
by AJPress
MANILA – Cavite Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga’s anti-corruption crusade reached its most confrontational moment on October 4, 2025, when he released a video on his official Facebook page titled “Congressman Barzaga’s Speech on the Call of the People for President Marcos’ Resignation.”
In the post, Barzaga echoed what he described as “the call of the people” for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to step down, framing his message as part of a broader demand for accountability over alleged anomalies in the Department of Public Works and Highways’ flood-control funds.
The video followed an earlier post in which he called for the president’s impeachment, citing what he viewed as the administration’s failure to act decisively on the controversy. Together, the two statements marked a dramatic escalation of his campaign against corruption and positioned the young lawmaker as one of the few voices in Congress openly confronting the chief executive.
The backlash was swift.
The Philippine Army Reserve Command recommended Barzaga’s delisting from its roster for what it classified as misconduct after he urged soldiers and reservists to join anti-corruption protests. Within
the House, several members filed ethics complaints questioning his conduct and public statements. Both actions remain under review.
The roots of ‘meow’ politics
The phrase “meow politics” traces back to Barzaga’s habit of saying “meow” during plenary sessions, a quirk that began as humor and evolved into his political identity.
His followers dubbed him “Congressmeow,” a label he embraced to signal independence from party lines and highlight his animal-welfare advocacy.
Supporters see “meow politics” as a symbol of authenticity and disruption in a chamber known for rigid decorum.
Critics dismiss it as trivializing serious debate. Barzaga maintains it is a reminder that lawmakers can be relatable while still confronting corruption and governance failures.
A glimpse of Gen Z politics
Barzaga’s unconventional style reflects a generational shift in government. As one of the first Gen Z lawmakers in the House, he communicates through livestreams, memes, and candid social-media posts that resonate with younger voters. His “meow” persona, for all its eccentricity, has become shorthand for a new kind of political theater that blends rebellion, branding, and authenticity.
Analysts say the approach carries both promise and risk. It challenges long-standing
hierarchies but can also blur the line between performance and public service. Political observers note that Barzaga is testing how far personality-driven politics can go in the age of social media.
Heir to a political dynasty
Born on September 12, 1998, Barzaga succeeded his late father, Elpidio “Pidi” Barzaga Jr., who held Cavite’s 4th District seat until his death in April 2024. His mother, Jennifer Austria-Barzaga, serves as mayor of Dasmariñas, while his brother, Elpidio “Third,” is vice mayor.
He began his political career as a city councilor in 2019 and was re-elected in 2022. As president of the Philippine Councilors League in Cavite, he gained a seat in the provincial board. In 2025, he won his father’s congressional seat and was appointed Assistant Majority Leader under then Speaker Martin Romualdez. Breaking away from the majority
Barely months into his first term, Barzaga broke ranks with the National Unity Party and the House majority. In September 2025, he alleged irregularities in flood-control allocations made while Speaker Romualdez was caretaker of his district. Romualdez’s allies denied the claim.
Barzaga also filed an ethics complaint against Deputy Speaker Ronaldo “Ronnie” Puno and abstained from voting when the chamber chose a new Speaker. He later floated
Senate upholds contempt order vs contractor Curlee Discaya
by Charie abarCa Inquirer.net
MANILA — The Senate on Thursday asserted that the contempt order against controversial contractor Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya was issued within the chamber’s constitutional authority.
The office of Senate President Vicente Sotto III made the remark following Discaya’s petition for a writ of habeas corpus, in which he cited alleged irregularities in his detention under contempt.
“The Senate remains firm
Rep. Toby Tiangco as an alternative candidate, signaling his willingness to challenge leadership even while acknowledging that he lacked the numbers to mount a serious bid.
Issues and advocacy
Behind the theatrics lies a policy record that spans populist and progressive causes. Barzaga has called for the reinstatement of the death penalty by firing squad for mass murderers and child rapists and for tougher penalties on animal cruelty and littering.
In September 2025, he stirred debate by proposing the legalization of abortion in cases of rape, a position opposed by conservative blocs in Congress.
He has promoted animal-welfare programs such as “Posadog” and “Posacat” for stray animals and proposed “Meow-lasakit” centers, modeled after the gov-
in its decision, asserting that the contempt order against Discaya was issued within its constitutional authority,” the statement reads.
In a hearing held before the Regional Trial Court of Pasay City, Branch 298, presided over by Hon. Melvin Cydrick Bughao, the court ordered that Discaya remain under the safekeeping of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms. Lawyers representing Discaya argued on the legality of his continued detention, while the respondents were represented by the Senate Legal Counsel. Meanwhile, Sotto’s office
ernment’s Malasakit clinics, to provide affordable veterinary care.
At the same time, he has emerged as a critic of congressional spending, calling for inquiries into the multibillion-peso flood-control program. No court has ruled on these allegations, and officials implicated in them deny wrongdoing.
Pushback and counterclaims
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson warned that political players may be exploiting the young congressman’s activism.
In an October 3 Senate press release, Lacson expressed sympathy for Mayor Jenny Barzaga, saying that “evil-mindedness” had led certain camps to use her son “to advance their self-seeking political agenda.” He also questioned the resurfacing of an old photo
said the case is scheduled to resume on Monday., after which it will be turned over to the Office of the Solicitor General for the succeeding hearings.
Discaya was cited for contempt during the Senate panel on blue ribbon’s September 18 hearing into anomalous flood control projects after the controversial contractor allegedly lied.
The decision by the committee stemmed from Sotto’s query as to why Discaya’s wife, Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya, failed to attend the hearing. n
showing him with the Discaya couple, suggesting it was circulated to discredit the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s ongoing investigations. Barzaga has not publicly responded to Lacson’s remarks.
Barzaga’s next test in Congress
Commentators have described Barzaga as a “thorn” in the House, a restless figure whose antics unsettle his peers but inject rare candor into proceedings. Whether he evolves into a reformist force or remains a viral curiosity will depend on whether his independence matures into institution-building.
For now, one of the country’s youngest lawmakers stands at the intersection of dynasty and disruption, wielding a single word, “meow,” as both challenge and statement. In the noisy halls of power, even the smallest sound can make the loudest echo. n
PAROL SEASON. Two children admire Christmas lanterns for sale at a sidewalk stall along Kamias Road in Quezon City on Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025. Most of the lanterns (parol) are made of capiz (windowpane oyster) shells. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
David Pomeranz: The King of Hearts celebrates 50 years of magic
David Pomeranz, the “King of Hearts” behind Got to Believe in Magic and King and Queen of Hearts, marks 50 years since the release of his debut album It’s in Every One of Us. Beloved across generations of Filipinos, his timeless ballads continue to define love, hope, and the enduring power of music
by AJPress
FOR half a century, David Pomeranz has sung of love, hope, and the quiet faith that something magical lives within every heart. His professional recording career began in the early 1970s and reached a milestone in 1975 with the release of It’s in Every One of Us under Arista Records. The record introduced a voice that was soulful and sincere, setting the tone for a career built on emotional honesty and melodic grace.
Five decades later, that same sincerity continues to define both his artistry and his enduring bond with Filipino audiences. He is loved by Filipinos everywhere - not
just for his songs, but for the sincerity that makes them feel personal, wherever they are in the world.
For Filipino listeners, who have always had a soft spot for heartfelt ballads, Pomeranz is more than a visiting act. His songs have stayed - woven into everyday life, from school proms to Sunday radio shows.
From Broadway dreams to enduring ballads
Born in New York, Pomeranz grew up surrounded by Broadway and The Beatles. As a teenager, he began writing songs and performing wherever he could. By the early 1970s, he was touring with Rod Stewart, Billy Joel, and Three Dog Night, discovering how a song connects when it’s sung straight from the heart.
His debut album, It’s in Every One of Us (Arista Records, 1975), featured a collection of heartfelt originals that introduced him as both a gifted singer and songwriter. Among its standout tracks were “It’s in Every One of Us” — the title track and centerpiece of the album - “Tryin’ to Get the Feeling Again” (later covered by Barry Manilow), “If You Walked Away,” “The Hit Song of All Time,” “Ask Me to Say ‘I Do’ (And I Will),” and “The Old Songs,” which Manilow also recorded years later.
These songs established Pomeranz’s reputation for emotional honesty and lyrical grace, and this landmark album now serves as the foundation for his 50th anniversary celebration. Finding home in the Philippines
When Pomeranz first arrived in the Philippines in 1983, he was astonished to hear an audience singing his lyrics word for word. From that moment, Manila became a recurring stop — and eventually, a second home. His gentle demeanor and heartfelt delivery resonated deeply with the Filipino love for songs that tell stories. “Got to Believe in Magic,” originally written for the 1982 film Zapped!, became a phenomenon here. It found new life in the 2002 movie Got 2 Believe starring Rico Yan and Claudine Barretto, and again in the 2013 ABSCBN teleserye performed by Juris Fernandez.
Through every version, the message stayed the same — belief in love, destiny, and something greater than ourselves. For many Filipinos, it remains the soundtrack to growing up, falling in love, and finding one’s way home.
A traveler of hearts
Across five decades, Pomeranz has performed on some of the world’s most iconic stages from the Hol-
lywood Bowl, the Kennedy Center, Munich’s Olympic Stadium, and even the Kremlin. Yet nowhere does he draw energy quite like in the Philippines.
From the Folk Arts Theater and Smart Araneta Coliseum to provincial cities and community halls, his shows feel more like reunions than concerts. He sings, the crowd answers, and the line between artist and audience fades. “There’s always that moment,” he once said, “when I realize — I’m home.”
Why Filipinos keep believing
Pomeranz belongs to a small group of Western balladeers - Air Supply, Dan Hill, Michael Learns to Rock, Rick Price - who found lasting kinship with Filipino audiences. While the rest of the world chases trends, Filipinos remain loyal to songs that speak simply and sincerely about love.
That’s why “King and Queen of Hearts” and “Got to Believe in Magic” never fade. They’re more than hits, they’re emotional landmarks. His music, like the Filipino spirit itself, wears its heart proudly on its sleeve.
Still believing in magic in 2025
At seventy, Pomeranz shows no sign of slowing down. Early this year, he performed in Winnipeg,
Canada, followed by a charity concert in Washington, D.C. for Filipino-American Cancer Care. In July, he returned to the Philippines for a three-day engagement at KCC Convention and Event Center in Cotabato, where thousands sang along to every lyric.
He remains a steady presence on Philippine airwaves and social media, where younger artists like Morissette Amon and KZ Tandingan continue to reinterpret his songs for a new generation. Even in karaoke halls, his classics still top playlists, a sign that his music has truly become part of Filipino life.
Culmination in Los Angeles: 50 years of It’s in Every One of Us
To mark his golden milestone, David Pomeranz will close the year with a special concert on November 1, 2025, at the Colony Theatre in Burbank, California.
A symbolic homecoming celebrating the 50th anniversary of It’s in Every One of Us.
The anniversary concert isn’t a farewell; it’s a quiet reminder of the same faith that has always powered his music that connection and love remain the true magic in all of us.
A voice that still believes Through changing decades, David Pomeranz has never chased trends or spectacle. His gift lies in quiet honesty in melodies that tell listeners they are not alone. When he sings, generations of Filipinos instinctively respond. Fifty years after his first album, the King of Hearts still sings about the one thing that never goes out of style - believing in love, and in the music that keeps it alive.
As he told Asian Journal, the evening will feel “like a party in someone’s home,” with several of the original musicians from the 1975 album joining him onstage. Though intimate in scale, the concert will revisit the songs that began his journey and showcase another side of his artistry, the theatrical and inspirational works that shaped his creative voice. For Pomeranz, the title track still captures what his career has always stood for: “It’s in every one of usto be wise, to be kind, to believe.”
The singer-songwriter of “Tryin’ to Get the Feeling Again” and the voice behind “Got to Believe in Magic” returns to Burbank on Nov. 1 for an intimate anniversary show celebrating his landmark Arista album
Carla Abellana to marry non-showbiz partner this December — Ogie Diaz
by Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com
KAPUSO actress Carla Abellana will reportedly be getting married by the end of the year, according to veteran showbiz journalist and talent manager Ogie Diaz.
On the latest video of Ogie's YouTube channel series "Showbiz Update," a source told him that Carla will tie the knot with a non-showbiz partner.
Ogie shared the lucky man, according to his source, is a chief medical officer of private Quezon City hospital.
Carla Abellana Photo from Facebook/ carlaangeline.abellana
The doctor reportedly dated Carla back in high school and recently rekindled their friendship and romantic relationship.
"Guwapo raw ito in person, ha. At chinito!" Ogie quipped.
Carla did confirm last August she was currently seeing someone, saying at the time she opening herself to dating and meeting people.
"I decided to try it," Carla said at the time. "Yes, there's a second date. We’ll see if there's gonna be more dates."
The actress was previously married to Tom Rodriguez but their union only lasted a few months, eventually ending in divorce.
Tom is now a father to an infant son, Korben, also with a non-showbiz partner.
Ogie reiterated in his video that it is up to Carla to confirm, deny, or give details about a supposed partner and wedding.
The luckiest casinos from Vegas to California to the East Coast
Florida’s Hard Rock Tampa tops the list of America’s luckiest casinos, but properties in California, Las Vegas, New York, and New Jersey are giving players plenty of reasons to believe in lucky streaks
NOT all casinos are equal in the eyes of fortune. A new ranking from Casinos.com has revealed where players feel luck is most on their side, highlighting a surprising rivalry between East and West Coast gaming hubs. While Florida’s Seminole Hard Rock Tampa topped the national list, properties in California, Nevada, New York, and New Jersey all earned places among America’s “luckiest.”
Las Vegas: Cosmopolitan and Red Rock make the list
Only two Las Vegas properties landed in the top 25. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas ranked No. 22 overall, with reviewers frequently citing jackpots and bonus wins, making it the Strip’s luckiest casino. Off the Strip, Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa in Summerlin secured the No. 25 spot, with locals long praising its modern slot machines and steady payouts. California: Pechanga and Chukchansi in the top 10 California casinos outperformed Las Vegas in the rankings. Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula placed No. 5 nationwide, drawing attention to its massive gaming floor and frequent jackpot mentions. Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino in Coarsegold, near Yosemite, came in at No. 10, with guests often highlighting big slot wins in their reviews.
East Coast challengers: New York and New Jersey
The East Coast also emerged as a stronghold for lucky gamblers. Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New Yorkranked No. 2 nationwide, second only to Florida’s Hard Rock Tampa, with a 24.40% “luck rate.” Resorts World Catskills in Monticello, New York followed at No. 7, while Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jerseysecured a spot in the top 25, reinforcing its reputation as a premier East Coast destination.
How “luck” was measured
The rankings did not rely on official payout statistics. Instead, analysts reviewed thousands of guest comments, tracking how often words such as “jackpot,” “won,” and “bonus” appeared. While this reflects perception more than mathematical odds, it offers a cultural snapshot of where players believe fortune is on their side.
Superstitions and rituals
Casino culture across states remains steeped in superstition. Players often gravitate toward lucky numbers such as seven, avoid 13, and rely on personal charms or “winning outfits.” Many refuse to leave a machine they feel is “hot,” believing another player might benefit from their streak.
East vs. West: A new rivalry
For Las Vegas, long considered the gambling capital, the results were humbling, with only two properties at the lower end of the list. California’s tribal casinos broke into the top 10, while New York’s Turning Stone nearly claimed the top spot. Atlantic City’s Borgata reinforced the Jersey Shore’s gaming clout.
The findings underscore how America’s gambling landscape is shifting. Luck may be subjective, but in the casino industry, perception is everything and players go where they believe their chances are best.
Are Jericho Rosales, Mon Confiado open to running for president?
by HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net
COUNT them out of politics, said Jericho Rosales and Mon Confiado, who both rejected the idea of running for president in the future.
The fact that Rosales and Confiado both played the roles of the country’s first chief executives in the upcoming biopic, “Quezon,” is not lost on them. However, when asked if they are open to the idea of being the top officials of the land, the answer was a firm “no.”
“The [short] answer is no,” Rosales said during the film’s grand media con in Manila on Tuesday, Oct. 7. “The long answer is, I came from [a trip] where there is a free walking tour. The tour guy said at the end, we just need leaders who care. Generally, sincerely, care. That’s all we need.”
Rosales, who portrays Manuel L. Quezon, said while everyone is privileged to learn from different platforms, it is all about prioritizing the country at all costs, noting that it’s a “genuine” intention that comes from the heart.
“I never graduated. I never went to college. Natuto ako mag-Ingles dahil sa telebisyon. Ang dami mong pwedeng pagaralan online or sa libro, lahat kaya mo. Pero wag wala sa puso mo at hindi genuine sa’yo ang pag-care at pag-silbi sa isang tao, hindi mangyayari ‘yan. Paano pa kaya kung isang bansa?” he said. (I never graduated. I never went to college. I learned how to speak English because of television. You can learn from various online platforms or through books. You can learn everywhere. However, if it doesn’t come from the heart, or if your care and service to the public are not genuine, it will never happen. What happens if the country is at stake?) With this in mind, Rosales
stressed that he loves art too much to let go of it for politics.
“Ang pinakamahal ko sa buhay ay sining, paano ko ipagpapalit ang sining sa posisyon? Paano ko pagsasabayin ang sining at ito? At iba pang bokasyon at pamumuno ng bansa?” he said. “Hindi madali maging [mamumuno ng isang] bansa, so ang hinihiling namin ay puso ng isang presidente.”
(What I love most in the world is the arts. How will I exchange it for a government position? How will I balance my responsibilities in art and politics, as well as other vocations, and serve the nation? It’s not easy to lead the nation. So what I ask for is for someone to have the heart of the president?)
Meanwhile, Confiado, who plays Emilio Aguinaldo in the movie, said that taking on a government position never crossed his mind.
“Ako, hindi. Wala akong kahilig-hilig sa pulitika. Ni minsan, hindi pumasok sa isip ko na pumasok sa pulitika. Aminado ako na hindi ko kakayanin at wala akong alam (Me, no. I am not fond of politics at all. Entering politics never crossed my mind. I know that I can’t handle it and I don’t know anything about it),” he said.
Solving corruption Since “Quezon” is described as a film that traces
the roots of the country’s political landscape, Rosales was also asked about how the Philippines and its countrymen can solve corruption. The question stems from the ongoing probe into the alleged corruption of flood control funds involving officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), lawmakers and private contractors.
“How do we solve corruption? Corruption is just like a pimple. It’s a byproduct of puyat, oil, and everything we eat. Going back to the question ng kung ano mapupulot natin sa pelikulang ito, play the trailer 10 times if you need to because the answer is there. Hindi trabaho ng isang tao ang pag-solve ng corruption. Trabaho natin ‘yun bilang isang Pilipino,” he said.
“Kaya pinili namin ang [tagline] na I am the Philippines because we should also take responsibility… We need to fact-check everything. Because it is our taxes, it is our money. How do we solve it? We all have the answers. Not one man can [solve] it,” he continued.
Directed by Jerrold Tarog, “Quezon” also stars Benjamin Alves, Karylle, Ana Abad Santos, Arron Villaflor, Romnick Sarmenta, and Cris Villanueva.
Jericho Rosales and Mon Confiado during the “Quezon” grand media con. Photos courtesy of TBA Studios
Nicole Scherzinger in awe of Palawan, proud of Filipino blood
by JeSSica ann evangeliSta Inquirer.net
NICOLE Scherzinger could not hide her amazement at Palawan’s beauty and expressed how proud she is to have Filipino blood that connects her to such a place.
The Filipino American singer took to Instagram on Thursday, Oct. 2, to share a clip in which she is seen swimming through the island’s clear turquoise waters.
“Imagine having blood that ties you to a place this breathtaking,” she captioned the post, tagging it with #Philippines.
In the comments section, the global singer’s celebrity friends expressed how amazed they were by Scherzinger and Palawan’s “combined beauty.”
“Unwritten” hitmaker Natasha Bedingfield commented, “Wow,” while Kakai Bautista wrote, “The Philippines love
you.”
Scherzinger, whose father is Filipino and mother is Hawaiian, has long spoken about her pride in her roots.
In past interviews, the former Pussycat Dolls frontwoman said she considers her Filipino side an important part of her identity.
Last year, Scherzinger delighted fans when she casually broke into her hit “Hush Hush” at a dinner, quipping, “Tell me you’re a Filipino without telling me you’re a Filipino.”
The 47-year-old performer and actress first made her mark in stardom as the lead vocalist of The Pussycat Dolls, behind chart-topping singles such as “Don’t Cha,” “Stickwitu” and “Buttons.”
In June this year, Scherzinger earned critical praise for her powerhouse performance as Norma Desmond in “Sunset Boulevard,” which won her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. The revival also bagged Best Musical Revival. Scherzinger previously played Penny (originally played by Cynthia Rhodes) in the 2017 remake of “Dirty Dancing,” the 1987 movie that starred Jennifer Grey and the late Patrick Swayze.
Sparkle calls out news on Heart Evangelista losing endorsements as fake
by Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com
SPARKLE Artist Management defended one of its talents, Heart Evangelista, by calling out as fake a news article circulating online involving the socialite-artist.
On its social media accounts, the talent agency posted a screenshot of a Bilyonaro article with the headline "FitFlop, Tiger Balm quietly drop Heart Evangelista amid Chiz Escudero probe."
The two brands have Heart as an endorser, and the probe being alluded to about the former Senate president allegedly being involved in kickbacks of flood control projects.
Sparkle called attention to the article and labelled it as "fake news."
"Fake news alert! this is not true!" the agency wrote. "Don't be fooled by fake news! Always be vigilant when reading articles online."
As for Heart, the socialite-artist recently shared in an Instagram Live she would be
‘A
full-circle moment’: Andres Muhlach takes on dad Aga’s iconic role in ‘Bagets: The
by cHarMie Joy PagulongPhilstar.com
IT was a full-circle moment for father and son, Aga and Andres Muhlach, as the latter took on the role of boy-nextdoor Adie in the upcoming “Bagets: The Musical.”
Aga originally played Adie — regarded as the former matinee idol’s breakthrough role — in Maryo J. de los Reyes’ 1984 movie “Bagets.” He was 14 at the time. Other cast members included William Martinez, Herbert Bautista, Raymond Lauchengco, and JC Bonnin. JC is Andres’ uncle and the cousin of his mother, Charlene Gonzalez.
The classic flick-turned-musical follows the journey of five teenage boys as they navigate adolescence, while dealing with family and friendship issues, as well as matters of the heart.
Scheduled to open on Jan. 23, 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) PLUS’ “Bagets: The Musical” is produced by Newport World Resorts and is presented by VIVA Communications, Inc. and The Philippine STAR in partnership with Sun Life Philippines.
skipping the Spring/Summer 2026 collection unveilings in the Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks, noting it currently is not a good idea for Filipinos to be abroad with luxury brands.
Heart first announced that she will not joining Fashion Week in Milan and Paris. "I know that you guys say 'laban, laban,' ganyanganyan. I really appreciate
you," Heart said. "But honestly, I don't think it’s the right time for anyone to, especially from our country, to be going to Fashion Week because I think we need to be here."
She explained that Filipinos had to "open their eyes" and "become one, empathize, really see what's going on, and see what they can do," adding she may return to fashion week events next year.
just so happy for me and excited. He’s excited because he’s gonna see din how I’m gonna do this,” the star of “Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para Kay Luna,” “Mutya ng Section E” and “Da Pers Family” shared. At the time of this interview, Aga hadn’t given Andres any acting advice on how to approach the role of Adie — at least, not yet.
“But if I asked him, he’ll have to check his memories from those times. I’m sure he has a lot to share with me din but wala naman siyang tips na binigay sa akin, yet,” shared the young actor.
“I’m sure at a certain point, I’m gonna start asking him na rin na, ‘Dad, sa tingin mo yung character ni Adie dapat ganito ba, ganyan?’ The character that he portrayed, Adie, that’s the character he built, the first role he ever did so it’s like a full-circle moment.”
Andres’ onscreen partner, Ashtine Olviga, already expressed her full support for him.
“One day, we were shooting the film (‘Minamahal’) and then, I suddenly got the news that I got ‘Bagets,’” recalled Andres.
part of Adie?
Andres: “I really couldn’t believe it because like I said ‘Bagets’ is such a generational thing here in the Philippines. It’s a phenomenal project. Not just my generation but even the older generations — they all know about ‘Bagets.’
“I was just so excited, ecstatic also because it’s a lot different from projects that I’ve done in the past coming from TV, the big screen to now entering theater… And I know that it also comes with a lot of hard work talaga and (I need to) get it right.
The musical remake is helmed by PETA’s Maribel Legarda (“Rak of Aegis”) with Vince Lim as the music director and screenplay by PETA’s artistic director and award-winning screenwriter J-mee Katanyag (“Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law” and “Maria Clara at Ibarra”).
“It’s surreal,” commented Andres on acting the part of Adie, during a virtual chat with The STAR. “First of all, ‘Bagets’ is such a generational thing here in the Philippines. And the fact that I got to be part of the cast, let alone be part of the cast, and then even to play the role of my dad, it’s such a big deal for me.
“I understood really how big ‘Bagets’ was in the Philippines, for Filipinos. It’s a big part of Filipinos’ childhood and now I’m just happy to say that I get to be a big part of such a generational project.”
Andres furthered that his dad was elated upon learning he had landed the role he once played.
“You know, that’s the role he played and now it’s going to me and this other cast of younger stars which was once, like, his other friends and his ensemble, and now it’s gonna be another set of boys. He was
“And of course, I told her and she was very happy for me, and I’m also very happy for her because she has her MMFF (Metro Manila Film Festival) project coming up (‘Manila’s Finest’). We’re both very happy for each other and there’s a lot of good things happening and things that we’d like to happen in terms of work. We’re very blessed right now.”
Meanwhile, here’s the rest of the interview with Andres:
What do you remember most about your audition day?
Andres: “I was scared at first because it was my first audition for theater. I wasn’t sure what it would be like. If it’s auditioning from a project, it’s a lot different from theater and of course, when we had to read the lines, I wasn’t unsure but I was like, ‘I can do this,’ because I can use a little bit of my experience from my working projects.
“When we auditioned, we had to also sing. I’m not used to it like sing kaagad, right on the spot. But when they said that you’re gonna sing, I was super game. I even joked to the director and the prod, I was like, ‘Direk ha, I don’t usually sing but I’ll give you a special performance.’”
How did you feel when you found out you’d gotten the
“It’s not just something you have to leave. You really have to work on it and you have to hone your craft in order to be ready for this. Ako naman as a person, I believe that with how hard I work, I believe talagang makukuha ko to. I can really bring a good performance and really improve.”
What’s your impression of Adie and how can you relate to the character?
Andres: “Sa tingin ko naman si Adie is like the super charismatic, charming boy-nextdoor vibes of the group. For me, the story is mature also because his love counterpart in the original film is — the girl is a lot older. And so for me, his story is what sets him apart from the other boys.
“The personality of Adie is… I think what made him stand out or what made my father’s Adie stand out is the charisma and the charm that he brought to the character.”
Can you share any unforgettable moments from your high school days since ‘Bagets’ is set in high school?
Andres: “There’s a lot. At the top of my head, I can’t really share pero marami din yun. When you see ‘Bagets’ and you see the dynamics of the friend group talagang makaka-relate ka kahit sino naman kasi we’ve all been through high school and we all have our friend groups and our (share) of the chaos or the laughter.”
(For ticket details, check out https://tinyurl.com/pav2pvk3.)
Nicole Scherzinger Photo from Instagram/@nicolescherzinger
Heart Evangelista was the special guest of New York-based Filipino fashion designer Josie Natori during the latter’s 45th fashion show in The Peninsula Manila Hotel Rustan's / Released
Health@Heart Sweeteners and brain decline
PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS
AN 8-year study among individuals 35 and older revealed a link between sugar substitutes and brain health. Those using artificial sweeteners showed a 62 percent faster decline in overall thinking and memorial skills. There was a 173 percent faster decline in verbal fluency, compared to non- or low users. The products tested included Aspartame, Erythritol, Sorbitol, Saccharin, Acesulfame K, Xylitol, and Tagatose. High-purity Stevia is an FDA-approved sugar substitute considered the safest. In spite of that, black coffee with no additives (perhaps except for cinnamon) is healthier, but if one needs a sweetener, regular table sugar is safer to use than artificial sweeteners. One teaspoon of table sugar has about 16 calories (4 grams of carbohydrates). Not that many calories, even for diabetics, drinking 1-3 cups of coffee a day.
Red meat and cancer
Our individual baseline lifetime risk for colon cancer is about 4 percent, without any added risk factors.
Among red meat eaters, daily consumption of 50 grams of processed meat increases it by 18 percent. Processing meats “involves unhealthy transformation through salting, smoking, curing, not just cooking on your grill,” especially with super high heat, which makes even non-processed red meat carcinogenic. All ultra-processed food items and unhealthy and increase our risk for various illnesses, including cancer.
Soft drinks and depression
“Soft drink consumption is linked to a higher risk for major depressive disorder (MDD) and more severe symptoms in women, potentially due to alterations in the gut microbiome,” a new study showed.
Drinking soft drinks was associated with a 16.7% increased risk for MDD and more severe depressive symptoms in women. “This link was significantly mediated by changes in the gut microbiome, particularly an increased abundance of the bacterium Eggerthella, which explained 3.8% of the effect on diagnosis and 5.0% on symptom severity.”
Consumption of soft drinks of any kind increases the risk
for the development of metabolic syndrome, especially among our youngsters.
As underscored in my book “Let’s Stop ‘Killing’ Our Children” (amazon. com), parents have the serious responsibility to prevent their children from consuming soft drinks of any variety (as early as after infancy) to preempt the development of an “addiction” to this dangerous “liquid candy.”
Cannabis and lung cancer
A study at the Marie Lannelongue Hospital in Paris, France, revealed that cannabis use is associated with aggressive lung cancer. “We observed a high prevalence of cannabis use in this group of young patients with highly lethal lung cancer. 38% were cannabis smokers, with an average consumption of four joints per day over a median period of 26 years.”
The study reported “other lung conditions among cannabis smokers included more emphysema, including bullous emphysema, which increases the risk for pneumothorax. Pulmonary function tests revealed greater damage in gas diffusion than in tobacco smokers, even though their exposure to tobacco was similar. The study also found that cannabis smokers had a higher incidence of poor-prognosis cancers, such as poorly differentiated carcinomas and sarcomatoid carcinomas.”
Hair-loss drug and suicide
A commonly used hair-loss drug, finasteride, can cause depression and increase the risk for suicide, according to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. A public warning has been issued to this effect. Losing life is certainly more concerning and vital than losing hair.
Long COVID among MDs/ RNs
Hundreds of thousands of physicians, nurses, and first responders have been infected by COVID-19 since 2020, and are now suffering from symptoms of Long COVID. Of the 1678 US healthcare workers studied, there were 7.7 percent (about 129) with Long COVID, and in another study in March 2023, the prevalence was 9.44 percent (445 cases). In the UK, 18 percent of workers were out due to this complication. Long COVID could be debilitating and disabling for a long time.
This is why we must prevent COVID-19 at all costs. Timely vaccination, boosters for new strains are import-
ant. Long COVID is a serious complication of the viral infection. Complication from the vaccines is a fraction of one percent, 100 times less than complications from the COVID-19 infection.
COVID-19 is still with us. While the number of cases is down (because more than 80 percent of the US population has been vaccinated), the hospitalization rate for the week ending October 4, 2025, was 8,500 nationally. For the week ending on September 20, 2025, COVID-19 accounted for 0.8 percent of all deaths in the United States.
If you have had your booster within the past 6 months, consult your physician about the new COVID-19 vaccine, and vaccines for influenza and RSV, especially if you are a senior. Remember, it's best to stay away from COVID, especially Long COVID.
Beta blockers for women
New clinical research has found that beta blockers, like Propranolol, significantly reduce stress and anxiety among women. This is now considered the “go-to pills” for these debilitating conditions among women. To find out if these sanity-saver pills, consult with your healthcare provider.
Diet and the brain
A new study posted in the BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health suggests a link between physical and cognitive symptoms of depression and a low-calorie diet for men and people with high BMI. There were 28,525 adult men in the study, which showed 2508 had self-reported depression following a low-calorie diet compared to those not on any special diet.
“The study low-calorie diet doesn’t always mean a healthy diet. Focusing on calories alone could omit nutrients that contribute to proper brain function, particularly for men, whose nutritional needs are greater… A low-calorie diet can contribute to depressive symptoms. Monitoring patients’ diet plans and emotional state can help ensure they are getting the proper nutrients for optimal health.” This confirms what common sense has been warning us all along.
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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.
*
Tito Sen and Helen mark over 5 decades of wedded bliss
by Pat-P Daza Philstar.com
SENATOR Tito Sotto and Helen Gamboa celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary this year, marking over five decades of wedded bliss since their marriage on Sept. 22, 1969. As the date fell on a Monday in 2025, they chose to celebrate a day earlier — on Sunday, Sept. 21 — at East Ocean Palace in Aseana Business Park, Parañaque City.
It was an intimate and relaxed celebration with only four round tables: two for Tita Helen’s “dabarkads” and two for immediate family — their children and grandchildren. I was fortunate to be seated at the table with Tito Sen and Tita Helen, where conversations were lively and filled with insights into the latest national developments.
Congratulations are in order for Tito Sen, who reclaimed the Senate Presidency last Sept. 8 from Senator Chiz Escudero. The latter has recently been at the center of controversies — from allegedly delaying impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, to questionable insertions in the national budget, and most notably, the P30 million in campaign donations from Lawrence Lubiano. Lubiano is one of the top 15 contractors flagged by President Bongbong Marcos in his now-famous presentation identifying those who have cornered 20 percent of the country’s flood control projects.
Congratulations are in order for Tito Sen, who reclaimed the Senate Presidency last Sept. 8 from Senator Chiz Escudero. The latter has recently been at the center of controversies — from allegedly delaying impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, to questionable insertions in the national budget, and most notably, the P30 million in campaign donations from Lawrence Lubiano. Lubiano is one of the top 15 contractors flagged by President Bongbong Marcos in his now-famous presentation identifying those who have cornered 20 percent of the country’s flood control projects.
With these mounting issues, many in the Senate felt that the institution’s integ-
rity was being eroded. The leadership change was seen as a necessary step toward regaining public trust.
Upon Tito Sen’s return as Senate President, a reshuffling of committee chairmanships followed. The powerful Blue Ribbon Committee was assigned to Senator Ping Lacson, Tito Sen’s running mate in the 2022 presidential elections. It was a fitting choice — Senator Lacson has long been recognized as a staunch fiscalizer and a relentless watchdog of the national budget. His hearings are widely respected for being thorough, fact-based, and free of unnecessary drama.
Given these recent developments, I made sure not to miss a word of the off-the-record stories Tito Sen shared that evening. It’s both infuriating and heartbreaking to hear how some legislators, contractors and officials have so brazenly misused public funds to support their extravagant lifestyles. Yet amid the frustration, there remains a shared hope that justice will prevail — that the guilty will be punished, and the stolen funds returned.
It was heartwarming to reunite with the dabarkads, especially Tita Dolor Guevarra, who was finally able to attend after months of being homebound due to health issues. She was accompanied by her daughters, Jaypee and Anes. Tita June Rufino came with her only son, Ranvel. Also present were Veana Fores, Maricel Soriano, Shirley Kwan, Lawrence Tan, Gello Jamias, Bechay Nakpil and former Senator Grace Poe.
The buzz of the night also included the Trillion Peso March, which took place earlier that day at Luneta and the EDSA Shrine. Many of us wore white in solidarity with the nation’s collective outcry to end corruption. Tita Helen, ever stylish, stood out in a radiant yellow pleated dress with floral prints, which she shared she found at a department store in Bangkok.
As expected, the food was exceptional — personally curated by Tita Helen, a certified foodie and excellent cook. Starters included crispy roast suckling pig, crabmeat soup and Peking duck in pancake wraps with hoisin sauce and leeks.
The main course featured an indulgent spread: mushroom abalone cubes, lobster with shongtong sauce, steamed lapu-lapu, beef in gravy, dry scallops with moss hair, Hong Kong-style sea mantis and Yang Chow fried rice. Dessert was a delightful pairing of chilled mango sago and buchi.
Before the evening drew to a close, we all bore witness to something truly beautiful — the enduring love between Tito Sen and Tita Helen. After 56 years of marriage, their bond remains unshaken and full of warmth, an inspiring testament to unwavering commitment, shared values and the quiet joys of a life built together. Watching them laugh, exchange knowing glances and lovingly interact with their children and grandchildren reminded everyone present that lasting love is not just possible — it’s real, and worth celebrating.
Senator Tito Sotto and Helen Gamboa
Halloween Horror Nights at LA’s Universal Studios Hollywood
Rogelio ConStantino MeDina My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
AT Southern California’s premier haunted Halloween event, Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles recently welcomed media representatives from across the United States during its opening night on Thursday, September 4. The event runs on 39 select nights through Sunday, November 2.
I was grateful to Rob Bourque and Ann K. Isip for representing me during the opening night filled with excitement and spine-tingling adventure.
This year’s terrifying Halloween Horror Nights features eight all-new and returning haunted houses, the menacing Terror Tram, and several frightening scare zones.
Among the highlights are:
• “Fallout”, which takes guests into the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Prime Video’s critically acclaimed series.
• “Five Nights at Freddy’s”, based on Blumhouse’s hit movie where nothing is as it seems at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria.
• “Terrifier”, inspired by the slasher-film franchise that brings the twisted world of Art the Clown to life.
Other attractions include “WWE Presents: The Horrors of The Wyatt Sicks,” immersing guests in the world of WWE and honoring the legacy of Bray Wyatt; “Jason Universe,” which resurrects the horror icon from the Friday the 13thfilms; and “Poltergeist,” based on Amazon MGM Studios’ supernatural classic that invites guests to “step into the light.”
According to Diana O’Campo, Universal Studios Hollywood’s public relations manager, “Scarecrow: Music by SLASH” puts retribution at the forefront as Mother Nature seeks vengeance on homesteaders for past sins—carried out by terrifying farmland scarecrows. SLASH’s original score amplifies the dread as guests navigate the haunted corridors.
Returning favorites include “Monstruos 3: The Ghosts of Latin America,” the final chapter where three ghostly legends await,
and “Terror Tram: Enter the Blumhouse,” where guests disembark the Studio Tour tram to encounter some of Blumhouse’s most iconic villains from the past 15 years.
Visitors can also experience “The Purge: Dangerous Waters,” a live stunt show that takes audiences on a fiery, rock-fueled fight for survival; the “Chainsaw Clownz,” a troop of killers prowling the scare zones; “Carnival of Carnage,” a maniacal fun house; “Noche de Brujas,” extending the terror from Monstruos 3; and “Murder of Crowz,” featuring a menacing flock guarding their nest.
Adding to the thrills, media guests also rode select theme-park attractions open during the event, including Jurassic World—The Ride, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ (Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, Flight of the Hippogriff™), Transformers™: The Ride-3D, Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride, The Simpsons Ride™, and Super Nintendo World™.
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Jackie, Anna and Leah at EDSA
It was heartwarming to see my rally companions against corruption—Jackie Aquino, Anna Ylagan, and Leah Navarro—at the EDSA People Power Monument.
Jackie Aquino is the daughter of ATOM founder Agapito “Butz” Aquino, my former boss when he ran for senator.
Anna Ylagan is the daughter of actors Barbara Perez and the late Robert Arevalo (a relative on my Ylagan side, whom I once saw at a restaurant during a nearby film shoot).
I have long been a music fan of Leah Navarro, who sang “Isang Mundo, Isang Awit,” the grand-prize winner of the 3rd Metro Manila Popular Music Festival (1980) with music and lyrics by Nonong Pedero.
* * * Teachers’ Day Celebration
After almost eight months away from home, I was happy to meet my fellow professor, Engineer Doy Bolina, who has been teaching for many years at the Technological Institute of the Philippines in Quezon City.
I was also touched by the thoughtfulness of my students at Mabalacat City College in Pampanga.
Happy Teachers’ Month to all my fellow educators!
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Dreaming of Jose Mari Chan
On Saturday, October 4, 2025, I dreamed of my former boss, Jose Mari Chan, the beloved OPM icon known for “Christmas in Our Hearts.”
In my dream, he gazed serenely toward the horizon, dressed in a blue shirt and surrounded by breezy trees—quiet, calm, and radiant with peace.
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do
not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
Sweeteners and brain decline...
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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, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by
then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, David Letterman, distinguished educators, scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com. On Amazon.com, search for “Where is My America?” Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com.
Ann K. Isip (right) with Rob Bourque at LA's Universal Studios Hollywood.
The food and drink served to the media during the opening night at USH's Halloween Horror Nights.
Poltergeist.
Poltergeist.
Thoughtful gifts from my students at Mabalacat City College, Pampanga during Teachers Day.
(From left) Anna Ylagan, Jackie Aquino, Leah Navarro and Asian Journal columnist Rogelio Constantino Medina.
Rogelio Constantino Medina with OPM icon Jose Mari Chan (right).
Prof. Doy Bolina (left) with Asian Journal columnist Rogelio Constantino Medina.
Screaming at Five Nights at Freddy's.
Media representatives gather at the USH's CityWalk.
