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OCTOBER 13-19, 2023 Volume 17 - No.1 • 16 Pages

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Marcos condemns deaths of DATELINE USA Filipinos in Israel, condoles with kin FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Fil-Am shooting survivor fights for tougher gun laws Surviving the Parkland shooting in Florida urged him to seek stronger safety measures

SURVIVING a tragic school shooting, Filipino-American Robert Schentrup advocates for a cause, even with battle scars on.

The US Supreme Court is back on this agenda as it’s now on a new term. A decision on whether individuals accused of domestic violence can still have a firearm was scheduled to be weighed by the Conservative majority court.

One of the advocates seeking stronger safety measures is Fil-Am Robert Schentrup.

Being a shooting survivor himself, he was the co-founder of Team Enough, a youth-

by Kristina Maralit ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday, October 11 shared his grief over the death of two Filipinos caught in the middle of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict as

he denounced the violence and terror attacks.

“My heart is heavy upon hearing confirmation of the deaths of two Filipinos in Israel. The Philippines condemns these killings and stands firmly against the ongoing terror and violence,” the Chief Executive said in a statement.

by AJPress

IN a closely contested election, Arman David emerged as the newly elected president of the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) on Sunday, Oct. 7, clinching victory by a mere one-vote margin. David’s success is a testament to the widespread support he garnered within the PIDCI community.

Expressing his gratitude, David stated, “Through God’s divine intervention and your unwavering support, I won by 1 vote.”

A total of 80 votes were cast, with 30 of those being proxy votes. Unfortunately, two votes were voided due to errors, highlighting the PIDCI team’s diligence with which the election process was conducted. These instances included an incorrect first name for the president and a blank vote for the

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3 islands in the Philippines hailed as among best in Asia

by Ghio onG Philstar.com

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Arman David triumphs as president of PIDCI in tightly contested election

The Philippines will remain firm in its stand in the pursuit of lasting peace in line with the United Nations (UN) resolutions and international laws, he further said.

The President likewise vowed that his administration will not cease in providing

STAR OF CHRISTMAS. Rodel, who has been working in the parol (lantern)-making industry for eight years, installs LED lights on a colorful parol made of capiz shells in Pasay City on Monday, October 9. This type of lantern sells between PHP1,200 to PHP7,000 depending on the size and design.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

MANILA — Boracay, Palawan and Siargao were included in the list of “Top Islands in Asia” by the foreign travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2023.

Boracay ranked third with a score of 91.07, Palawan sixth with 89.71 and Siargao 10th with 87.37, according to the results of the magazine’s online poll.

Bali in Indonesia topped the list, followed

by Koh Samui in Thailand, Boracay, Phuket in Thailand, Langkawi in Malaysia, Palawan, Sri Lanka, Phú Quoc in Vietnam, Okinawa and Ryukyu Islands in Japan and Siargao.

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Most Pinoys see dangers Competitive eaters battle for lumpia of climate change supremacy at NYC’s Lumpia Fest

by Janvic Mateo Philstar.com

MANILA — Around seven in every 10 Filipinos believe that climate change is dangerous for the environment, the Philippines and their respective families, according to a recent survey

by Pulse Asia.

Results of the Sept. 10 to 14 survey released on Monday, October 9 revealed

that 68 percent of the respondents believe that climate change is dangerous for the environment.

Some 11 percent said it is not dangerous, while 21 percent were undecided.

Another 69 percent said climate change is dangerous for the Philippines, with 10 percent saying it is not dangerous and 21 percent undecided.

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by MoMar G. visaya AJPress

THE second annual Lumpia Fest took the Upper West Side by storm on Sunday, October 9, as food enthusiasts and competitive eaters gathered to celebrate this iconic Filipino dish. The highlight of the festival was an intense lumpiaeating contest, where participants vied for the coveted $1,000 prize.

Last year’s champion, Wayne Algenio, returned with determination to defend his title against a diverse field of contenders. Among the seven participants who took on the challenge, three were non-Filipinos, and remarkably, two of them had never tasted lumpia before.

To add to the excitement, three audience volunteers — Winwin, Stephen, and Josh — joined

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From the Front Page

Competitive eaters battle... Why ageism prevails and how to stop it PAGE 1 the contest when some registered participants failed to appear. With only 10 minutes on the clock, contestants devoured as many lumpias as they could.

As the dust settled, it became evident that some had a keener appetite for lumpia than others. The volunteer trio ate the lowest number, with Stephen consuming 13 lumpia, Josh managing 22, and Winwin leading the pack with 24. Mohammad and Andrew demonstrated their competitive eating prowess, devouring 104 and 147 lumpias respectively.

The defending champion Wayne Algenio, despite a valiant effort, fell short of reclaiming his crown by managing to consume 132 lumpia.

The ultimate victory went to a competitive eater Dan “Killer” Kennedy, who participated in his firstever lumpia-eating contest.

Remarkably, Kennedy devoured a staggering 184 pieces of lumpia, securing the prize and the bragging rights for the Lumpia King title.

Reflecting on his victory, Kennedy shared his strategy, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated, stretching, and maintaining a relaxed demeanor during the competition. That, and “stay loose and have some fun, entertain the crowd and eat until you can’t eat no more.” As a seasoned competitive eater, he noted that such wins were rare

Deputy Consul General Adrian Cruz (right) joined Philippines Fest organizers in a group photo with the top three finishers of the lumpia eating contest. Collectively, the top three downed 463 pieces of lumpia, with Dan “Killer” Kennedy (fourth from right) winning the crown with a record-breaking 184 pieces of lumpia eaten in ten minutes.

and cherished, given the stiff competition in the field.

“The first ones that came out were a little cold, they’ve been sitting there for a while and then they started bringing out fresher ones and it got faster so I think we really picked up the pace near the end of the contest,” he told the Asian Journal.

Kennedy’s next gastronomic feat?

A donut-eating showdown, showcasing his insatiable drive for victory as he journeys to yet another competition. This formidable competitive eater recently garnered attention in a Philadelphia Eagles video where he devoured an Eagles lineman’s daily fare. In less than ten minutes, Kennedy tackled two 12-ounce ribeye steaks, five scrambled eggs, one avocado, three sausage links, three Greek yogurts,

Seven contenders faced off in the highly-anticipated lumpia eating competition at Lumpia Fest on Sunday, Oct. 9. Surprisingly, three of the participants, including two who had never tasted lumpia before, were non-Filipinos. In an unexpected turn of events, these two newcomers emerged as the final two competitors, showcasing their impressive appetite for the beloved Filipino dish.

AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

one sweet potato, one baked potato, two protein shakes, two orange juices, and a “mjonster mash” bowl (featuring rice, ground beef, and seasoning).

Lumpia, a beloved Filipino dish, is characterized by its thin pastry skin, filled with ground pork, minced onions, carrots, and seasonings such as salt and ground black pepper. It is deep-fried and served as a popular snack or appetizer in Filipino cuisine.

The popularity of lumpiaeating contests is on the rise in the United States, particularly in areas with significant Filipino communities. These contests showcase not only the deliciousness of lumpia but also the competitive spirit and camaraderie within the Filipino-American community.

The Lumpia Fest in New York City was just one example of the growing trend, joining a list of other events nationwide celebrating this Filipino culinary delight.

From Houston to California, lumpia-eating contests are bringing communities together to enjoy the thrill of competition and the delicious taste of lumpia.

Amid intense competition at Lumpia Fest in NYC, the event served as a fun celebration of Filipino culture and an exhibition of remarkable competitive eating skills, epitomized by Dan “Killer” Kennedy and the rest of the competitors.

The organizers of Philippines Fest hope that with lumpia’s continued rising popularity in the United States, the future holds exciting culinary and eating challenges. n

AGE isn’t everything when it comes to human health and ability, yet it often dominates conversations about these to the detriment of older adults.

In a Friday, Oct. 6 EMS briefing, aging experts discussed why ageism — discrimination on the basis of older age — prevails in the way we view older adults, and how to overcome it.

Talking about age How we talk about aging determines much of how we experience it, said Dr. Louise Aronson, a geriatrics professor at UC San Francisco. “We were about the same age as a species for a really long time, and though now we’re a whole lot older, some things haven’t changed. Old age still ends in death.”

As far back as 10,000 B.C. until as recently as 1820 A.D., the global life expectancy was 20 to 30 years; in 2019, it was over 73.

The COVID-19 pandemic “showed us how age matters,” she added, as older adults had disproportionately greater risks and fatalities.

U.S. adults 65 and over made up over 75% of COVID-related deaths as of September 2023, according to the CDC. The health system’s very definition of older adults as anyone 65 or older, however, prevents practitioners from meeting these adults’ individual needs.

For example, “We give vaccines based on people’s biology and social behaviors, so there are 17 subcategories for children, three for adults between the ages of 19 and 64,” Aronson said. “But everybody aged 65 and up is lumped into a single category, even though a child would instantly see the physical and

assume the differences between a 64 year old and 104 year old. This distinction is not based on scientific evidence about our lives.”

Nevertheless, “age isn’t everything,” Aronson said. Ethnic differences also compounded these risks, with Black Americans aged 75 to 84 having a nearly 900-fold difference, Latinos well over a 500fold difference, Native Americans a 200-fold difference, and AAPI a 150-fold difference over non-Hispanic whites in the first six months of the pandemic.

This way of viewing age in terms of vulnerability to death has particular implications for ageism in the U.S., where life expectancy has declined to 76.4 years — the shortest in two decades.

However, life expectancy, too, is disproportionately divided among racial and economic lines. Even before the pandemic, for example, 56 of the 500 largest U.S. cities had life expectancy gaps up to 30 years between neighborhoods a few miles apart.

“That isn’t about biology,” said Aronson.

“That’s about social choices, and where we put our money, our values and our priorities … I would like to see a world in which you may be “over the hill,” but the entire range of the hill has value … ‘anti-aging’ terminology is not helpful. The only way not to age is to die.”

The need to address ageism Cheryl Brown, Chair of the Executive Committee for the California Commission on Aging (CCOA), said that behavioral health, caregiver training, and housing access are PAGE 10

Arman David triumphs as president of...

PAGE 1 presidential candidate in one of the director slots.

With a background as a dedicated nurse, David brings a strong sense of service and commitment to his new position. His involvement with PIDCI spans three years, during which he served in various capacities on the board, including Director, Secretary, and most recently, vice president.

Throughout this tenure, David’s dedication to PIDCI’s betterment has been evident, working tirelessly to enhance the organization’s impact on the community.

David’s presidency pledges to prioritize key values within PIDCI, with transparency, accountability, and community engagement at the forefront. He envisions a PIDCI that is inclusive and welcoming to all, striving for excellence in every endeavor.

“I am committed to making PIDCI a more accessible and equitable organization,” David declared. He plans to initiate outreach programs to encourage more community organizations to become

Arman David (third from right) takes the oath of office as the newly elected President of PIDCI, surrounded by members of the Board of Directors (from left to right): Paul Verzosa, Aida Tagle, Maria Nucum, Joycelyn Andes, and Rico Viray, (not in photo) Czarmel Lopez and Teodora Kotsidis. Their collective dedication promises a new era of progress and inclusivity within the PIDCI community. Photo by Felix Manuel

members, thus opening the doors to greater transparency and collaboration. David firmly believes that every voice in the Filipino community deserves to be heard and represented.

David envisions building on PIDCI’s solid foundation, with ambitions to expand its reach and impact. He aims to explore new avenues to showcase the rich history, cultural heritage, and traditions of the Filipino people to a wider audience.

Also elected as members of the Board of Directors were Czarmel Lopez, Aida Tagle, Joycelyn Andes,

Maria Nucum, Paul Versoza, Rico Viray, and Teodora Kotsidis. The board election saw 13 candidates vying for seven open positions, further exemplifying the robust engagement and commitment within PIDCI’s leadership.

David’s victory as PIDCI President stands as a milestone in the organization’s history. With his resolute dedication and vision, David is poised to lead PIDCI into a new era of growth and progress, promising a bright future for the Filipino community in New York City and beyond. n

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OCTOBER 13-19, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

Fil-Am shooting survivor fights for...

PAGE 1 led gun violence prevention organization.

That’s not all; he’s also been a part of Brady: United Against Gun Violence and a former fellow at Rise, a multisector coalition of sexual assault survivors committed to empowering all survivors.

Schentrup started taking up the cause of Team Enough in 2018 after surviving the tragic Parkland school shooting in Florida. Unfortunately, his 16-year-old sister Carmen was one of the 17 people who died at the hands of a lone gunman on that tragic day.

Back then, he shared in an interview that he wouldn’t be watching or following his sister’s trial. And even though his sister was killed that day, he still wanted for the gunman to live, as he shared with Washington Post.

Fast forward to now, here’s his insight on the gun law update, “There’s a possibility here for the Supreme Court’s decision saying that removing guns from domestic abusers is unconstitutional, and that is something that we don’t want to happen,” he said.

Advocates supporting

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

Marcos condemns deaths of Filipinos...

PAGE 1 support to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and the Filipino community affected by the ongoing battle between Israeli and Palestinian forces.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo earlier on Wednesday confirmed the death of two Filipinos “as a result of Hamas actions against Israel”. His agency has yet to disclose the identities of the fatalities. n

Most Pinoys see dangers of...

Photo from Robert Schentrup/Facebook

change Schentrup and his fellow advocates are all for change.

They’ve welcomed US President Biden’s decision to establish the first-ever Office of Gun Violence Prevention.

They believe it’s an action that could potentially bring the much-needed coordination and solutions to the table.

“It’s really important throughout the entire government that there’s a place that could coordinate the efforts,” he said, “to really make sure that we have the solutions that we need, implemented in a way that would be most effective.”

Meanwhile, another Fil-Am anti-gun violence advocate, Representative Justin Jones

of Tennessee, is also at the White House during the announcement of the recent gun law update.

“Just like FEMA response to natural emergencies like hurricanes, tornadoes, this office is an emergency response to the crisis of gun violence that we are facing as a nation,” Rep. Jones said.

The shocking statistics call for stricter gun laws.

Just this year alone, the Gun Violence Archive has recorded a staggering 532 mass shootings in the US, as of October. So far, over 1,300 teens and kids have been victims to gun violence in 2023.

If nobody acts, then who would? (By Mary Villegas/ Inquirer.net) n

PAGE 1 Asked about their view on climate change and its impact on their families, 71 percent said it was dangerous, while 12 percent said it is not dangerous.

Another 17 percent were ambivalent.

The survey found a slim majority of the respondents saying they either have sufficient or wide knowledge about climate change.

Eleven percent said they have “wide knowledge” about climate change, down two points from 13 percent obtained in a similar survey conducted in June last year, while 44 percent said their knowledge about the issue is “not wide but sufficient,” up from 34 percent last year.

Meanwhile, 40 percent said they have “little knowledge” about climate change while five percent said they have no or “almost no knowledge” about the issue, down from 46 percent and seven percent, respectively.

By area, knowledge about climate change is highest among those in the Visayas (13 percent “wide knowledge,” 56 percent “sufficient knowledge”), followed by those in Metro Manila (nine percent “wide knowledge,” 48 percent “sufficient knowledge”), rest of Luzon (eight percent “wide knowledge,” 44 percent “sufficient knowledge”) and Mindanao (14 percent “wide knowledge,” 34 percent

“sufficient knowledge”).

In contrast, the lack of knowledge about climate change is highest among those in Mindanao (40 percent “little knowledge,” 11 percent “almost no knowledge/none”), followed by those in Balance Luzon (45 percent “little knowledge,” three percent “almost no knowledge/ none”), Metro Manila (41 percent “little knowledge,” five percent “almost no knowledge/none”) and the Visayas (29 percent “little knowledge,” two percent “almost no knowledge/ none”).

The respondents were also asked “how big or little is climate change?” in their place in the past three years.

Some 65 percent said they experienced big climate change, while 11 percent said it was small. The remaining 24 percent were undecided.

Asked for what they think is the primary reason that calamities happen, 46 percent said it is due to the destructive ways of people who regularly abuse the environment, down 18 points from the 64 percent in the June 2022 survey.

Some 32 percent said it is due to “natural processes that regularly occur worldwide” (up from 19 percent), while 21 percent said it is “God’s warning or punishment to nations turning to evil ways” (up from 16 percent).

The Pulse Asia survey had 1,200 respondents and a margin of error of plus/ minus 2.8 percent for the national percentages.

Comprehensive In a related development, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is urging finance departments to lead efforts in addressing climate change, given their functions that will allow a more comprehensive government approach.

“Central agencies, notably ministries of finance, must champion a comprehensive government-wide approach, encompassing all pertinent agencies and incorporating climate considerations into public financial management and public investment management policies and decisions,” ADB director for public sector management and governance Hiranya M u k h o p a d h y a y , ADB principal public management specialist Hanif Rahemtulla and public-private partnership expert David Bloomgarden said in the multilateral lender’s latest blog.

With environment and climate change departments often leading climate policy development and implementation, finance departments are being overlooked in their capability to guide climate action, according to Mukhopadhyay, Rahemtulla and Bloomgarden.

— Louella Desiderio n

3 islands in the Philippines hailed...

PAGE 1 Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco praised the accolades for Boracay, Palawan and Siargao, saying in her statement, “This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication and sustainable tourism efforts of our country, from our local communities, national and local government agencies and stakeholders who have strived tirelessly to preserve and enhance the beauty of these islands.”

The agency also said around 600,000 readers of Condé Nast Traveler registered and took part in the online poll.

Boracay topped Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Islands in Asia list in 2020 and 2022, while Palawan placed fourth in 2020 and eighth in 2022. n

Tourists enjoy white beach on the resort island of Boracay in this photo.

Philstar.com file photo

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OpiniOn

Features

Baby step toward reforms

5

After several days of deliberations, the House committee on appropriations has finalized the list of government agencies that will have zero confidential funds in their 2024 budget. In addition to the Office and the Vice President and the Department of Education, which were the first agencies to be identified by the House of Representatives, the committee has added the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Department of Foreign Affairs.

DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo has said the department does not need confidential funds. The DICT has been taken to task by lawmakers for low utilization of its regular annual appropriation. The DA is headed concurrently by President Marcos, who has over P4 billion in secret funds at the disposal of the Office of the President.

Vice President Sara Duterte, the concurrent education secretary, had requested P150 million in confidential funds for the DepEd and another P500 million for the OVP. The House committee has instead approved P150 million, but as part of the maintenance and other operating expenses of DepEd, and specifically allotted for state assistance for

students and teachers in private education. Unlike the confidential and intelligence funds or CIF, the MOOE is subject to regular government auditing rules.

Also getting certain amounts for MOOE are the DICT, DFA, Office of the Ombudsman and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. Of the P1.23 billion in realigned confidential funds, P300 million will go to the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency and P200 million to the Philippine Coast Guard. Another P100 million will go to the National Security Council and P381.8 million to the Department of Transportation for airport development, including the expansion of the airport on Pag-asa Island in the West

Editorial

Babe’s Eye View BaBe Romualdez MANY Filipinos are mourning the death of three fishermen after their fishing boat Dearyn was rammed reportedly by a Marshall Islands-registered commercial vessel off the waters of Pangasinan. The Philippine Coast Guard has

ManilaTimes.net photo

Philippine Sea. The realignment is a baby step toward the bigger task of rationalizing not only the allocation of secret funds to national government agencies, but also the wide discretion granted to local government units to declare large chunks of their budgets as confidential funds. Billions of pesos in public funds, declared as confidential by LGU executives, are escaping proper scrutiny by

state auditors. This is against constitutional provisions and laws on transparency and accountability in the utilization of public funds.

The issue can be brought to the Supreme Court, but Congress can do its part by legislating institutional changes. The House realignment of CIF is a good start. Now the momentum must be sustained toward farranging reforms. (Philstar.com)

The perils faced by our fishermen

identified the commercial vessel as Pacific Anna, a crude oil tanker that reportedly belongs to Sinokor Merchant Marine Co., a joint venture between Chinese and Korean companies established in 1989.

Hopefully, what happened was really an accident as initial investigations by the Philippine Coast Guard seem to indicate – and was not a deliberate intent to ram

the fishing boat. People are waiting for the investigation to run its course, with President Marcos having given his assurance that justice will be served and those responsible for the incident that resulted in the deaths of the three fishermen that include the boat captain, and injured several other boat crew members, will be made accountable.

Whenever something like

this happens, it brings into mind the incident involving Gem-Ver, a small fishing boat that was rammed by a Chinese trawler identified as Yuemaobinyu 42212, in the waters of Recto Bank in June 2019. Instead of helping, the Chinese abandoned the Filipino fishermen and left them floating at sea for several hours before they were thankfully rescued by a Vietnamese boat

crew. What’s more, it took almost three years before the victims were compensated by the owners of the Chinese vessel who paid half of the compensation demanded by the victims.

The latest incident involving F/B Dearyn underscores the dangers that our fishermen face as they ply their trade in order to provide for their families. One of the biggest hazards that they face

is inclement weather, with scientists saying that global warming has increased “storminess” as typhoons are becoming even more intense.

In fact, there have been stories about fishing crew being hit by lightning during thunderstorms.

Their exposure to the elements – being rained on, enduring the high heat during daytime, then extremely PAGE 10

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

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OCTOBER 13-19, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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Dateline PhiliPPines

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SWS: 45% of Filipinos think quality of life didn’t change since last year by adrian Parungao Inquirer.net

BESTSELLERS. Before going full blast for the Christmas season, the spooky Halloween tradition will be celebrated first, marked by costume parties and trick-or-treat activities. A vendor in Manila’s Divisoria commercial center shows on Monday, October 9 some of their most sought-after masks.

PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

MANILA — Most Filipinos think that the quality of life has not changed since 12 months ago, according to the Social Weather Stations (SWS) on Tuesday, October 10.

In its survey, 45 percent of adult Filipinos said that the quality of life did not change from 12 months ago, while 33 percent said quality of life was better, termed by the SWS as “Gainers,” and on the other hand, the remaining 22 percent said that quality of life worsened, termed by the SWS as

“Losers.”

The polling company marked the Net Gainer score to be at +11, which is classified as “very high,” which increased from the March 2023 net Gainer score of +5, which merited a “high” classification.

Meanwhile, the SWS said that the number of Net Gainers were very high in non-hungry families (+13), while the number was fair in overall hungry (+1), moderately hungry (+4), and severely hungry families (-18).

Net Gainers also notched a +30 score among those who were Not Poor, which is classified excellent, +18 among the

Borderline Poor, classified as very high, and -4 among the Poor, classified as fair.

The SWS conducted its survey from June 28-July 1 with 1,500 adults.

According to the SWS, 13 percent of its respondents came from Metro Manila, 45 percent were from Luzon outside Metro Manila, termed Balance Luzon, 19 percent were from Visayas, and 23 percent were from Mindanao.

It also marked error margins to be at ±2.5 percent for national percentages, ±4.0 percent in Balance Luzon, and ±5.7 percent each for Metro Manila, the Visayas, and Mindanao. n

No travel, deployment ban to 7 Filipinos missing, 22 saved as war in Israel rages Israel — DMW, DFA by dona Z. PaZZibugan and Jerome aning Inquirer.net

by Zacarian Sarao Inquirer.net

MANILA — There is no travel or deployment ban to Israel amid the ongoing conflict between the Israeli government and the Hamas group, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

“Kasi it takes Alert Level 3 to hold deployment for all types of workers, Alert Level 2 for new hires, wala pa tayo sa Alert Level 2, technically, wala pa tayong deployment ban sa ngayon,” said DMW officer in charge Undersecretary Hans Leo Cacdac said in a press conference on Tuesday, October 10.

(Because it takes Alert Level 3 to hold deployment for all types of workers and Alert Level 2 for new hires, we are not yet at Alert Level 2, technically, we do not have a deployment ban yet.)

Cacdac said that in the Philippines’ current government-to-government hiring arrangement with Israel, the deployment of hotel workers has been suspended, depending on the status of Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv.

“From our side, walang (there is no) impediment, but we would still have to check on our Israeli counterparts,

first ‘yung airport situation,” said Cacdac.

“Second, whether or not we can already have that renewed flow of deployment for Israel. All it takes is we will check with our Israeli counterparts,” he added.

Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega explained that no alert level has so far been imposed in Israel as there has been no recommendation from the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv, so far.

No travel ban, but travelers cautioned De Vega also said that no Israel travel ban has so far been imposed.

He explained that the Holy Land sites like Jerusalem, Betlehem, and Nazareth — which tend to gather the highest number of tourists in the country — are not where the hostilities are located.

Nonetheless, De Vega still advised the public to hold off traveling to the country until the conflict has been resolved.

“We’re not telling you not to go, but we’re advising you it’s best to postpone until we’re absolutely sure the hostilities have ended,” “After all, even the prime minister of Israel said that it is in a state of war,” he added. n

MANILA — Seven Filipinos remain missing while 22 others have been rescued in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant nationalist group Hamas, according to the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), quoting the country’s ambassador to Israel, said on Monday night, October 9 that based on the information verified by the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv, “there were 29 Filipinos that were initially reported missing. Twenty-two have been rescued by Israeli security forces, transferred to a safer area and are now housed in hotels.”

One of those rescued was being treated in a hospital in Beersheba for “moderate injuries sustained during the rescue,” while another was treated for smoke inhalation but later discharged, it added.

Both have been visited by the embassy’s labor attaché and welfare officer.

“Seven remain unaccounted for, who cannot be contacted via their mobile number and social media accounts,” the DFA said, adding that the Philippine Embassy was closely coordinating with Israeli security authorities and community contacts to determine their whereabouts.

Speaking at the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon news briefing aired on state

television on Monday, Administrator Arnell Ignacio of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) identified the five “missing or unaccounted for” Filipinos as Grace Cabrera, Shelly Romillo, Norilyn Babadilla, Gallenor Leandro Pacheco and Loreta Alacre.

He also named four others who were rescued as Loreta de Costa, Buena Besol, Marilyn Magana, and Joey Fasulingan.

Fasulingan, who hails from Cagayan Valley region, was hit by a bullet and was already recovering at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv, the Owwa chief said.

It was not clear if these missing, rescued, and injured Filipinos were among those monitored by the DFA through the embassy in Tel Aviv.

Repatriation requests According to the DFA, at least 25 of the 137 Filipinos in the Gaza area have asked to be repatriated.

The Philippine Embassy in Amman, Jordan, one of Israel’s neighbors, has also received requests for repatriation from Filipinos in Gaza, it said.

“Numbers may change as some are still undecided but as of [Monday], 25 who have signified their intention informed [the embassy that] they want to leave Gaza,” DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said.

The Philippine Embassy

in Israel also said that it had relayed the call for help of a Filipino woman who claimed she recognized her husband as the man being held by armed individuals, most likely in Gaza, in one of the war videos shown in social media.

Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega, another guest at the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon news briefing, said the Philippine Embassy had been in touch with authorities in Israel to ensure the safety of Filipinos there.

He said most of the 30,000 Filipinos in Israel were in Tel Aviv.

While there were around 300 agriculture students in the southern part of Israel, De Vega said they were all safe and the embassy was in touch with them.

In Gaza itself, there were around 150 Filipinos, according to De Vega, but Ignacio cited Owwa records showing there were 200 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Gaza and another 137 Filipinos who were already residents there and had married Israelis.

De Vega said that based on calls to the embassy’s hotlines, the top concerns that Filipinos in Israel relayed were their worries and fears about being in a shelter, messages to inquire about fellow Filipinos whom they were not able to contact, and assurances to the embassy that they were safe.

Meanwhile, Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin on Monday urged the government to use the remainder of the P13

billion in contingent funds in the 2023 national budget to aid Filipinos affected by the conflict in Israel.

She said the funds were meant for emergency situations such as helping OFWs trapped in the ongoing conflict and providing them with jobs.

Rising death toll The death toll from Israel’s war with Hamas on Monday surged above 1,100 by the third day of clashes, with Israeli troops fighting to regain control of the desert around the Gaza Strip and evacuate people from the embattled border area.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Israel on Sunday, October 8 to prepare for a “long and difficult” conflict a day after Hamas launched a surprise assault from Gaza, firing a barrage of rockets and sending a wave of fighters who gunned down civilians and took at least 100 hostages.

More than 700 Israelis have been killed since Hamas launched its largescale attack, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Monday. Another 1,200 people have been wounded, many critically.

In retaliation, Israeli airstrikes hammered the impoverished and blockaded Gaza Strip, an enclave of 2.3 million people, with officials there reporting at least 413 Palestinian deaths.

“Overnight IDF fighter jets, helicopters, aircraft, and artillery struck over 500 PAGE 10

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Sara, Arroyo meet with INC head

by Red Mendoza ManilaTimes.net

VICE President Sara Duterte paid a courtesy visit to the executive minister of the Iglesia ni Cristo, Bro. Eduardo Manalo, last October 2 at the INC Central Temple in Quezon City.

The visit was reported by INC-run television station NET 25 in its primetime

news program on Monday, October 9.

According to the report, Duterte was “warmly received” by Manalo in his office and congratulated her for her work as vice president and secretary of Education.

The report also mentioned the new curriculum for Kinder to Grade 10 students called the “Matatag” curriculum, which aims to

focus on core competencies and foundational skills of learners from those grade levels.

The Iglesia ni Cristo, according to the report, is a key advocate of education in the country, specifically the Alternative Learning System or ALS and Technical and Vocational education as part of the programs being implemented at New Era

University.

When asked by The Manila Times regarding the visit, the OVP said that it had “no available details” to share, noting that it was a “private visit.”

Meanwhile, Manalo also received Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo last October 6 also at the INC Central Temple. n

COVID-19 cases on the rise – DOH

by Rhodina VillanueVa Philstar.com

STABLE SUPPLY. The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) on Tuesday, October 10 assures stable supply of pork meat and by-products during the holiday season. In Davao City’s Bankerohan Public Market, pork meat sells for PHP300 per kilo.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

MANILA — The average number of daily COVID-19 cases in the country continues to go up, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

The latest COVID-19 Bulletin issued by the DOH on Tuesday, October 10 showed an average of 181 cases daily for the period of Oct. 2 to 8.

“This is three percent higher than cases reported

from Sept. 25 to Oct. 1,” the agency reported.

The DOH earlier said the country had an average of 176 cases daily for the period of Sept. 25 to Oct. 1.

During the past week (Oct. 2 to 8), 1,264 new cases were logged.

The agency also noted that 12 patients were in severe and critical condition, and six deaths were verified during the past week, while one of the fatalities occurred from Sept. 25 to Oct. 8. n

The perils faced by our fishermen...

PAGE 5 cold weather at night – can make them susceptible to serious illness, with health experts warning that extended exposure to the sun in today’s world made hotter due to climate change can seriously cause cancer.

Undoubtedly, a fisherman’s life is physically demanding. The long hours at sea could lead to fatigue and exhaustion.

The poor quality of sleep can also interfere with their concentration, such that when the boat suddenly rocks, they can slip or lose their balance (especially since the surface of the boat is almost always wet), resulting in injuries.

The presence of illegal structures can also compromise the safety of fishermen, especially small-scale ones because these illegal structures – such as the floating barrier placed by the China Coast Guard in Bajo de Masinloc – could get entangled in the engines or propellers of the fishing boat. Obviously, these illegal structures have to be removed when they get snagged, but since not all fishing crew are experts at diving, this could prove to be risky.

It’s therefore not surprising that many countries have condemned the placement of the 300-meter-long floating barrier by the CCG, among them the European Union with Ambassador Veron saying China’s action “disregards the peace-driven objectives of UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).”

But aggravating all these dangers

are the relentless bullying, aggression and intimidation that our fishermen are subjected to by China Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels. A video that has since gone viral showed a small Filipino fishing boat nearly colliding with a bigger China Coast Guard ship that cut its path while trying to enter Bajo de Masinloc, an area that is within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines.

According to a report by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization in collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and Rare Philippines, fisheries is a major productive sector in the Philippines that has over two million active fisherfolk, with more than 80 percent of them categorized as “artisanal.” Artisanal fishing refers to small-scale fishers, fish farmers and fish workers, or those who engage in traditional fisheries and have relatively small capital. More often than not, their “contribution to the food security and nutrition of the country is immense but often go unnoticed and under-appreciated. They are also among the poorest and most socially vulnerable sections of the Philippine population,” the FAO’s Report on the Status of Artisanal Fisheries in the Philippines stated.

The Philippines is at the heart of the “coral triangle” which is considered as “the center of marine biodiversity in the world.” Our country has been blessed with vast aquatic resources and is home

to more than 2,000 species of fish, many of them located in the West Philippine Sea. Thousands of fisherfolk, especially those from Ilocos, Central Luzon as well as Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan, depend on the West Philippine Sea for their livelihood. Yet they are also the most vulnerable because of the continuing harassment by the Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia who prevent them from entering areas that have been declared by international law as traditional fishing ground.

Many welcome the proposal of Congressman Joey Salceda to provide fishermen with radios and communication equipment so they can immediately ask for help from the Philippine Coast Guard if they are subjected to harassment or prevented from entering traditional fishing ground by China Coast Guard ships.

Clearly, fishermen should be given government support in protecting themselves from the perils they face at sea – after all, they provide food on the table not only for their families but the whole nation as well. (Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** babeseyeview@gmail.com

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Why ageism prevails...

PAGE 4 key to addressing ageism.

Such policies prioritizing equity for older adults are key given that by 2030, California will be home to 10.8 million older adults — comprising one-quarter of the state’s population, and nearly twice as many as in 2010.

The trend is similar nationwide: by 2030, U.S. adults 65 and over are projected to increase by nearly 18 million from 2020, comprising one in every five Americans and outnumbering children for the first time.

Brown urged efforts in other states and nationwide similar to the California Master Plan for Aging, a 10year blueprint developed by CCOA in 2021 and aimed at supporting older adults socially, economically, and healthwise.

Ageism and Alzheimer’s Relating ageism to Alzheimer’s disease, Dr. Barry Reisberg — psychiatry professor at NYU and adjunct aging professor at McGill University — said the point at which older adults can no longer participate socially and in the workforce is later than many may think.

This point is measured clinically by the Global Deterioration Scale, which identifies the 7 stages of Alzheimer’s.

Reisberg, who developed the scale, said stage one precedes any detectable impairment of memory. In stage two, the adult “would not remember things, like names or where they place things, as well as they could five or 10 years previously”; this lasts a mean of 15 years.

In stage three, this symptom advances to “a decrease in job functioning” — e.g. organizational or travel skills — which lasts about seven years in

otherwise healthy adults.

Many people can go on working into this third stage and the fourth — which entails more forgetfulness of recent events — depending upon the job at hand, he emphasized.

In the fifth and sixth stages — which entail the need for help with daily activities and a greater inability to recall names — the key is to help older adults “be all that they can be as long as they can,” said Reisberg. In the seventh and final stage, which normally lasts one to two years, communication is impaired and help is needed with all daily activities, like bathing and dressing.

One way to both combat ageism and support older adults — especially in the case of health problems like Alzheimer’s — is optimizing aging through intergenerational activities” and communication, suggested Brown, wherein older adults could learn from innovations of youth and youth could learn from the experience of older adults.

Optimizing aging is not mutually exclusive but inclusive with recognizing aging, added Aronson.

“Does old age come with an increased risk of illness and death? Absolutely it does,” but “age alone cannot predict which category the person is in … There are some teenagers with really good judgment, who could drive perfectly well at 14 and there are others who shouldn’t be driving at 25.”

“We need different sorts of measures than age,” she continued, “so everyone over a certain age doesn’t feel completely a part of this society … (and) won’t miss out when they could have added to it more fully.”

(Selen Ozturk/Ethnic Media Services) n

7 Filipinos missing, 22...

PAGE 7 Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip,” the military said in a statement.

IDF spokesperson Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus estimated around 1,000 Palestinian militants had participated in Hamas’ assault on Saturday, October 7.

“Never before have so many Israelis been killed by one single thing, let alone enemy activity in one day,” he said.

The conflict has had a global impact, with several other countries reporting nationals killed, abducted, or missing, among them Brazil, Britain, France, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Nepal, Thailand, and Ukraine.

At least four U.S. citizens were killed in the attack, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement, adding that the toll was likely to rise. n

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

11

Success story: Triple triumphs scored for client on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday

PATRICK was petitioned for a green card by his aunt as a cook for her restaurant.

Interestingly, not many people are aware that family members can petition other family members for an employment-based green card, provided it is a real job and the employer is earning enough to pay the worker’s salary.

After establishing that the position at his

aunt’s restaurant was a bona fide job and after the aunt was able to provide additional evidence and documents, the Department of Labor approved the labor certification application, and eventually, the immigrant petition for an alien worker was approved.

Patrick was also able to apply for lawful permanent status and was able to get his PAGE 12

‘I did confess’: Alden Richards admits falling in love with Maine Mendoza

MANILA — Kapuso actor Alden Richards admitted that he fell in love with former love team partner Maine Mendoza.

In his guesting on “Fast Talk With Boy Abunda,” the veteran host asked Alden: “Did you fall for Maine Mendoza?”

“Yes, Tito Boy. Yes po,” Alden answered.

“Hypocrite po kung hindi, and yes po, ayoko pong sabihing alam niya, pero I did confess,” he added.

Alden also said that his love team with Maine, popularly known as AlDub, was his biggest romance and biggest breakup.

“Romance, yes, Tito Boy. Ang daming PAGE 15

NEPHEW PETITIONED FOR EMPLOYMENT BASED GREEN CARD ON AN ENCORE SUCCESS STORY CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! This encore episode has three lessons and victories – Family can petition other family members for a green card through an employment-based petition; Patrick was able to get his green card in the U.S. without having to return to the U.S. Embassy in Manila; and Patrick’s green card was approved even without an interview. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, October 15 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

12 OCTOBER 13-19, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to earn triple victories for Patrick (left) on a brand-new episode of Citizen Pinoy.

Success story: Triple...

PAGE 11 green card in the U.S. without having to return to the U.S. Embassy in Manila, and his green card was approved without an interview.

Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, October 15 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

(Advertising Supplement)

Linlang emerges as top pick on prime video Phl

By Nathalie tomada Philstar.com

LINLANG leads Prime Video’s roster of Filipino titles for the last quarter of 2023, claiming the top spot upon its debut last Thursday with its promising tale of deceit and drama.

Topbilled by Kim Chiu, Paulo Avelino and JM de Guzman, and produced by ABS-CBN and Dreamscape, the series may initially seem as another infidelity story — a topic well-trodden in Filipino entertainment. But from the two episodes, it appears to offer much more beneath the surface, while delving into the major themes of betrayal, deception, and complex family dynamics.

In particular, it has begun exploring other subjects such as challenges faced by Overseas Filipino Workers, annulment, co-parenting, and the double standards in marital matters, adding depth to the story’s intriguing and already emotionally charged start.

A lot of things happened during the two-episode premiere.

But without spoiling too much, we witness Victor “Bangis” Lualhati (Paulo), a former boxer turned seaman, grappling with suspicions of his wife Juliana’s (Kim) infidelity. Juliana’s confession and subsequent “blame-shifting” help set the stage for the narrative.

PAGE 13

Topbilled by (from left) Paulo Avelino, Kim Chiu and JM de Guzman, and produced

by ABS-CBN and Dreamscape, the suspense drama Linlang debuts at No. 1 on Prime Video Philippines.

Philstar.com photo

BETWEEN 300 to 400 physicians in the United States kill themselves each year, or about one a day.

The rate of suicide is highest among anesthesiologists, general practitioners, psychiatrists, and surgeons, a rate higher compared to the rate in other professions, and double that of the suicide rate in the general population.

The unrealistic selfexpectation of perfection, corporate control, and meddling (restriction of freedom) in medical practice, unsatisfactory working conditions as employees, and dwindling material situation, are some of the factors that lead to severe depression and suicide among physicians.

In 2022, 49,500 people killed themselves in the United States. I could not find statistics on suicide rate among physicians in the Philippines, but in the general population (predominantly Christian), it is 2.2 per 100,000 population, compared to 13.5 (may be higher) per 100,000 in the U.S. and 17.3 in Japan. Suicide among military veterans in the United States, the rate is at 31.7 (about 20 veterans each day).

For help, in the U.S., you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.

Melatonin warning New studies revealed that the popular sleep hormone, melatonin, worsens attacks among asthmatic patients.

Melatonin is sold over the counter and is an ingredient in many sleep aid formulas.

Many of these patients, who take a sleep aid that has melatonin as a component, have more severe episodes because melatonin constricts the airway passage making it harder for these people to breathe. However, natural melatonin secreted by our own body does not cause any problems. Other sensitive individuals (non-asthmatic) could develop heart rhythm irregularity with melatonin.

Among children with asthma, eating fatty fish like sardines and salmon at least

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Physician suicide two times a week has been shown to reduce asthma symptoms. An impressive lung function improvement was noted after six months of these children who started eating fish. The high omega-3 (antioxidant) content of the fish is an anti-inflammatory agent.

Daily exercise also reduces asthmatic symptoms by more than 2.5 times compared to those who do not.

Plant-based diet Abundant clinical studies have shown that plant-based diets, like the Mediterranean Diet, South Beach Diet, Vegetarian Diet, etc., are healthier compared to diets [based] mainly on red meat. Pork is not white

tissues and organs (heart, liver, kidneys, etc.). Also, stem cells are “selfsustaining and can replicate themselves for long periods of time.”

Scientists, working on mouse models, have discovered that stem cell therapy could SOMEDAY possibly help cure many common diseases that afflict man today. While the goal of stem cell research is unquestionably laudable, and its potential benefit to mankind tremendous, the controversy centers on its efficacy and safety today, ethical, moral, religious, legal, and social ramifications.

Basically, the grave

The unrealistic self-expectation of perfection, corporate control, and meddling (restriction of freedom) in medical practice, unsatisfactory working conditions as employees, and dwindling material situation, are some of the factors that lead to severe depression and suicide among physicians. meat as marketed; it is also red meat. Chicken is white meat. Individuals on plantbased diets, which are loaded with polyphenols, and antioxidants that are anti-inflammatory, have a lower risk for metabolic and cardiovascular illnesses and cancers. Exception: Nightshades vegetables (eggplant, potato, pepper, tomato) aggravate arthritis.

Steel-cut, gluten-free oatmeal, walnut, pecan, chestnut, and pistachio, and about 3-5 servings of fruits (diabetics should add these to their calorie count) are healthy. The high-heat cooking and burnt part of barbequed meats could increase the risk for cancers, like that of the pancreas.

Stem cell Rx The building block, the foundation of every cell, tissue, and organ in the body is the stem cell. Stem cells are undifferentiated, with no “specific assigned task as yet.” This has been likened to a blank computer microchip that could be “programmed to perform any number of special tasks.” Subjected to proper conditions, stem cells will develop into specialized

concerns are (1) The hype and claims are too premature and untrue; (2) Where the stems cells will be harvested from (adult, fetus, or embryo); and (3) The possible misuse and abuse of this new technology.

As I have stated in my talk before the Rotary Club some time ago, this evolving science merits more randomized, doubleblind, and voluminous clinical studies in various medical centers around the world before it becomes standard in medical care. It also requires a deep soulsearching introspection, and a serious, intense, and thoughtful deliberation to arrive at a morally, ethically, and medically sound stem cell treatment protocol that will also ensure the protection of the unborn, besides healing the sick, and at the same time preserve the dignity of humankind it seeks to serve.

With its unique characteristics, stem cells can someday provide the cells to replace damaged or diseased tissues with new living cells that will regenerate into healthy,

young, normally functioning tissues in the treatment of conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc., or as listed above where specific parts of the organs have been damaged and rendered “non-functioning” leading to the development of the disease.

However, the last word is not in yet. Anyone or any clinic who claims otherwise and offers stem cell therapy for many other diseases or cosmetics or longevity is trying to steal your money.

The only evidence-based clinical data showing stemcell therapy is effective is in the management of blood dyscrasias, leukemia, and some lymphomas, with wonderful results. Indeed, caveat emptor!

On a final note, I want to say this: Filipinos and other peace-loving peoples around the world are praying for all the victims of the atrocities in Israel. Our heart goes out to them and their families.

Let us continue to endeavor, dream, and hope for peace and justice around the world. *** 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. *** 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. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, conferred by then Indiana Governor, later Senator, and then presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, and Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Related websites: FUN8888.com, Today.

SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua. com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

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Anne Curtis claps back at Linlang emerges as top on... netizen who called her ‘big lips’: ‘Born, blessed with these lips’

By Anne PAsAjol Inquirer.net

ANNE Curtis underscored that she feels confident and blessed to have full and pouty lips, hushing a netizen who seemingly tried to offend her by calling her “big lips.”

Last Saturday night, October 7, a jet-lagged Curtis took to her X (formerly Twitter) page to ask, “Are peeps still awake at this hour?”

She immediately garnered responses from X users including one @winter_ Snowcold, who said, “Medyo papansin ‘tong big lips na ‘to.

Kulang na lang ipa-surgeon mo ‘yang bunganga [mo].”

(This [person with] big lips is hungry for attention. You might as well [undergo a surgery] for your mouth.)

The “It’s Showtime” host then replied, “Hindi ko kailangan ng (I don’t need a) surgeon or any doctor [because] I was born and

Anne Curtis

Photo from Instagram/@annecurtissmith

blessed with these lips or Bunganga (mouth) as you say,” adding a face-blowinga-kiss emoji.

After getting noticed by the actress, the X user appeared to have taken down the tweet but screenshots of it have already been reuploaded on the platform.

Fans then commended Curtis for flaunting confidence amid naysayers, with one @

cooleth_yessha saying that the actress-TV host was one of the reasons she came to love her facial features.

Meanwhile, Curtis earlier flew to France and attended her first-ever Paris Fashion Week. The actress-TV host, as expected, stunned fans and fellow celebrities with her “Annegelic” look, which she showed via her Instagram page. n

PAGE 12 Victor opens up about his situation to his halfbrother Alexander (JM), a hotshot lawyer who handles annulment cases and readily offers legal assistance.

But Victor eventually discovers that the man — Juliana’s boss (Jake Ejercito) — that he earlier mistook and that Juliana herself claimed as the lover couldn’t be who he is purported to be. As he digs deep into his wife’s affair, the story suggests that the woman he loved and married may not be what she seems to be, and the people he trusted the most could be the same people who would betray and hurt him the most.

The Philippine STAR had a one-on-one interview with the series’ lead stars to talk more about their characters and the storyline of the 14-part suspense drama.

Kim, in particular, embraces a daring and unconventional role in Linlang, emphasizing how the streaming platform allows for creative freedom and exploration.

“What made me accept this project?” began Kim. “First, it’s about my growth as an actor. This project is very timely for my career. Because when will I do this if not now? Especially now that we’re on a streaming platform. That is very open when it comes to doing these kinds of stories,” she told The STAR. “In a streaming platform, there’s nothing (bawal). You can do anything, even the words, even your physical appearance. You can show everything there. So, I think this is the perfect time for me to do this kind of role.

“But, I’m really nervous, to be honest

because this is something different. And when I say different, it’s different, different.

I’m excited and nervous at the same time. But I’m happy.”

For JM, portraying a lawyer posed a unique challenge due to his limited knowledge of legal jargon and related stuff. Nevertheless, he viewed this project as an opportunity to learn from his fellow actors, including Paulo, with whom he worked for the first time.

Paulo was also drawn to the project for the opportunity to work with talented coactors and directors. “Well, they said Kim Chiu is doing it, so I said game,” he quipped.

“But mainly, I haven’t worked with so many actors here. Kim, JM, and a lot more.

Also, I haven’t worked with FM Reyes, one of our directors (along with Jojo Saguin). I always accept projects based on what I haven’t done before. And when they presented this project, it gave me the chance to think of so many ways on how to improve the character.”

For this series, Paulo also pushed himself through a body transformation to embody his character’s journey.

“I think people would see that I was playing with my weight. Just to make it more realistic and give something else, something new for a TV show,” he said.

“It wasn’t easy, mainly because the character aside from the physical side is, I wouldn’t say heavy, but going through a lot.

I also had to consider that, plus the weight I was gaining and losing throughout the show, it was doubly hard.”

The actor had to gain around 20 to 35 PAGE 15

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people events arts culture entertainment

FRANK AND DEAN COFFEE X DANIEL CORPUZ CHOCOLATIER

Brewing a presence for specialty Filipino coff ffeee in the NYC market

by MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress

N the thriving landscape of specialty coffee, Filipino entrepreneurs are carving I out their space, blending tradition with innovation. With a rich heritage of coffee cultivation, the Philippines hopes to reemerge on the global coffee map.

Consul General Senen Mangalile, emphasizing the pivotal roles of unwavering quality and a steady supply chain, underscores the essential steps towards this goal. “First, there needs to be an increased awareness

of our coffee products,” Mangalile told the Asian Journal. This awareness is a crucial step in introducing Filipino coffee to a wider audience, starting with putting these exceptional specialty beans on the map.

Consul General Senen Mangalile (middle) emphasized the two crucial elements for the Philippines to regain its foothold in the American market - awareness of Filipino coffee products and a robust industry side that can meet the demand. From left to right: Vice Consul Paolo Mapula, Daniel Corpuz, Miguel Escueta, and Gino Cabigao.

The second critical factor, according to Mangalile, is ensuring the industry can meet the demands for consistent quality at scale.

He points to the historical position of the Philippines as a major coffee supplier to the United States, a legacy that holds the promise of a return to prominence.

“We have the quality beans that consistently win awards,” Mangalile explained, affirming the country’s capability to produce top-tier coffee beans. “If we don’t have the scale and consistent quality, prospective clients will lose interest.”

Entrepreneur Miguel Escueta, a co-founder of Frank and Dean Coffee (FDC), closely aligns with Consul General Mangalile’s insights on penetrating the American market. Escueta, a

In the thriving landscape of specialty coffee, Filipino entrepreneurs such as Miguel Escueta of Frank and Dean Coffee and Jockeylyn Wong of Kapehan ni Roney are carving out their space, blending tradition with innovation. With a rich heritage of coffee cultivation, the Philippines hopes to reemerge on the global coffee map.

AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

full-time recording artist for about a decade before diving into the coffee industry, emphasizes the significance of a well-structured supply chain. “I think getting your supply chain done is the first big challenge and once you have that down, it gets easier,” he shared.

“We’re trying to facilitate the entry of Philippine coffee at good prices into the New York circuit,” Escueta revealed, shedding light on their concerted efforts to pave the way for Philippine coffee in the New York market. This endeavor, supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Consulate General, signals a promising step towards introducing Filipino coffee to a wider audience.

Frank and Dean Coffee, which currently operates four outlets in Manila, recently staged pop-up events to showcase their coffee beans, proudly sourced from Sagada, Mountain Province.

Escueta and his cofounder Nicolo Villonco partnered with Daniel Corpuz Chocolatier, the namesake brand of Corpuz, a pastry chef and chocolatier based in New York City. He is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has achieved several accolades in the culinary industry and was a contestant on the first season of Netflix’s “School of PAGE 15

Frank and Dean Coffee, founded by Miguel Escueta (right), has made waves in the Philippines with four thriving locations in BGC Global City. The brand has also ventured into partnerships with major players like Unilever and GCash, solidifying its presence in the industry. Their latest collaboration in Manila is with Krispy Kreme, brewing and bottling their signature coffees.

Frank and Dean Coffee collaborated with Daniel Corpuz Chocolatier, renowned for his unique approach to chocolate-making, they featured bonbons created using Auro cacao sourced from Davao and coffee beans from Sagada paired with the coffee shop’s espresso-based drinks.

Daniel Corpuz Chocolatier showcases an array of chocolate delights, from bonbons and truffles to chocolate bars, many infused with authentic Filipino flavors and ingredients. For the collaboration with FDC, he crafted exquisite bonbons using cacao from Davao and coffee beans from Sagada

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 13-19, 2023 15

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Linlang emerges... ‘I did confess’: Alden Richards admits...

PAGE 13 pounds at the start of the filming and lose around 20 pounds midway into the shoot that lasted for some six months.

“But I had fun, I learned a lot, it taught me a lot about discipline. It taught me a lot about my body as well, and listening to my body. It was really a challenge and I hope I pulled it off,” said Paulo.

In terms of lessons, he said the series teaches about the consequences of mistakes and the importance of choosing what’s right and fair for everyone involved.

Paulo said, “Like normal human beings, we make mistakes. And sometimes those mistakes have ripple effects.

It affects people around you, people you love. I think, at the end of the day, it’s always about choosing what’s right and what’s fair for everyone.”

For her part, Kim said that her character highlights the significance of attention, time, and security in relationships, particularly for women.

“What does a woman really need? A woman just needs attention, time and yes, security. That’s all she needs to feel loved, appreciated and feels accepted in many ways. So those are the factors that are lacking in my character. That’s where the story begins,” she said.

“As the story goes on, they (viewers) will realize that, ah, that’s why. And they will also see what’s wrong and right. And there are a lot of wrongs that I hope will be right in real life,” she added.

JM, on the other hand, learned about moral and legal aspects through his character’s journey.

“I mean, aside from being a lawyer, you should know what’s right and what’s wrong. And legally right and wrong,” JM said.

“My character is a family man. He’s also in love. So there are risks and problems in the relationship. So, maybe my character will show how to love. (And that there) are also mistakes. There are risks.”

Regarding the series’ themes, Paulo said that he always goes for simplifying complex issues.

“Everything is so complicated nowadays. There are a lot of issues that have been tackled here that I disagree with and a lot that I agree with,” he explained.

“But at the end of the day, I always want to simplify it: Right is right, wrong is wrong. If you love someone, love someone fully. And give it your all. If it doesn’t work, move on.”

Both Kim and Paulo pointed out the theme of co-parenting and expressed their concern for its impact on children.

“It’s not a trend, but it’s happening lately to people… and yes to you,” Kim said, referring to her co-star Paulo, to which he agreed.

“That’s one of the issues (co-parenting setup) that kids have a hard time with. But at the same time, I hope kids can see that it’s not their fault whatever happens to their parents.

(We’d like to show here) the importance of a child’s selfworth. I hope they can see that.”

Added Paulo, “And (the importance of the) child’s welfare.

I’m sure our audience will be mature… So they’ll see that a child’s welfare is very important. It affects them (children) when their parents fight.”

Said Kim, “Even when we were doing scenes, I felt sorry for my child (in the show). I don’t think it’ll ever happen (with me). I’ll protect my child as much as I can.”

JM, on the other hand, resonated with the theme of infidelity, the need for empathy and understanding for both sides of such complex situations.

“Because now on social media, we often see that when there’s an issue, only the other person is at fault. There’s a trial by the public (favoring one side). Here, you can see both sides. There’s empathy in both.”

The cast also urged viewers not to miss any episodes, as each one contains “easter eggs” that provide answers to the series’ overarching questions.

Linlang drops new episodes every Thursday and streams in over 240 countries and territories via Prime Video. It also stars Maricel Soriano, Ruby Ruiz, Kaila Estrada, Jaime Fabregas, Raymond Bagatsing, Albie Casiño, Jake Ejercito, Heaven Peralejo, Adrian Lindayag, Race Matias, Benj Manalo, Lovely Abella, Frenchie Dy, Ross Pesigan, Hanna Lexie, Juno Advincula, Connie Virtucio, Lotlot Bustamante, Meann Espinosa, Danny Ramos, Bart Guingona, Marc Mcmahon, Anji Salvacion, and Kice. n

PAGE 11 opportunities na dumating po sa buhay ko because of it. I’m very grateful to Maine. I’m very grateful to ‘Eat Bulaga,’ by all means. Sincerely,” Alden said.

“Kasi parang du’n ko po naramdaman na talagang when you work hard for something, si Lord, ‘pag may hinihingi ka, hindi niya ‘yan ibibigay sa panahong gusto mong makuha. He always has this magic of giving it at the right timing. But breakup, Tito Boy, yes,” he added.

Alden said that the

AlDub breakup is for both of them to grow as individuals.

“A breakup. But let’s remove the negative context of breakup in this conversation with AlDub. It doesn’t necessarily mean that when you’re going through a breakup, laging masama, laging masakit, laging malungkot,” he said.

“It was a breakup because both of us, Maine and I, we needed growth.

We needed to venture into our individual life, you know, to learn [to] move,” he added. (By Jan Milo Severo/Philstar.com) n AlDub, also known as MaiChard: Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza

The STAR, File

Brewing a presence for specialty Filipino coffee...

PAGE 14 Chocolate”.

He is known for his unique approach to chocolate-making, which incorporates Filipino flavors and ingredients. For these pop-ups, Corpuz created bonbons using Auro cacao sourced from Davao and coffee beans from Sagada.

Gino Cabigao, FDC’s New York liaison, orchestrated a pair of exclusive pop-up events for this exciting collaboration. The first took place last Saturday, where guests were treated to a delightful experience of specialty coffee and chocolate pairings at Tradisyon, a cherished Filipino restaurant nestled in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen. Then, on Tuesday, Oct. 10, Escueta and his dedicated team brought their coffee and chocolate combination to the Philippine Consulate General on Fifth Avenue.

“There’s a lot of new brands coming up. Filipino entrepreneurs are becoming more creative. They are becoming welltraveled and they are exposed to a lot of other brands around the world through social media,” Escueta noted about the growing number of Filipino coffee shops competing against giants like Starbucks and Coffee Bean.

This surge of creativity is giving rise to a new wave of concepts, each vying for its place in the sun. However, as he rightly points out, the real challenge lies in sustaining and growing these ventures.

Frank and Dean Coffee’s “Dream Latte” is one such concept that emerged during the pandemic as a response to the changing work landscape. “People were working at home, they didn’t want to go out so a lot of coffee shops started bottling their coffee,” Escueta explained. This product is now a top seller, indicating a burgeoning market for ready-to-drink coffee. He hopes to bring this product to the United States when the right time comes.

When it comes to the unique flavors of Filipino coffee, Escueta highlights their diverse sourcing, saying, “We get from Sagada, from Benguet. Some of our wholesale clients like robusta, so we also source from Cavite and Tagaytay.

We also do some blends with beans

Wong aims to preserve and showcase her father’s traditional coffee-brewing method, reminiscent of the Malaysian style, employing a cloth filter secured to a wire loop.

Photo courtesy of @kapehannironey

Escueta set up a coffee cart for their pop-up at Tradisyon in Hell’s Kitchen on Saturday, Oct. 8.

Photo courtesy of Gino Cabigao/KultureKo

from Brazil and Ethiopia.”

While the Philippines may not have the capacity for massive export, the consul general stressed the importance of establishing a reputation for reliable, high-quality coffee in the American market. “Our goal is to bring our awardwinning coffee on a regular basis, not on a massive scale, but enough to penetrate the established coffee market here in New York,” he emphasized.

The consul general further outlined the need for consistent efforts in this direction. “We have to do it on a regular basis,” he added, underlining the dedication of the Department of Trade

and Industry (DTI) in making this vision a reality.

Additionally, he shed light on potential sources of specialty coffee within the Philippines. Areas like Bulacan, particularly in the mountainous region of Dona Remedios Trinidad, are showing promise for coffee cultivation.

At the Lumpia Fest on the Upper West Side last weekend, one of the vendors was Kapehan ni Roney, a coffee shop that opened in Negros Occidental in 1975. It has expanded its presence to the United States, under the ownership of Jockeylyn Wong, Roney’s daughter.

With a couple of locations in the towns of Binalbagan and Kabankalan, the coffee shop gained renown for its handcrafted puto (rice cake) steamed in banana leaves, a delightful complement to their aromatic brew.

Wong told the Asian Journal that she wants to highlight and continue the traditional coffee-brewing method her dad uses which is similar to the Malaysian style, utilizing a cloth filter affixed to a wire loop. Wong envisions using pop-up shops as a platform to share this cherished tradition and spotlight the distinctive coffee from her hometown in Negros Occidental.

While the yield of coffee beans from unlikely areas like Bulacan and Negros Occidental may not be massive, it holds the potential for producing exceptional, specialty-grade coffee.

“This event today is a perfect example of the fact that when Filipinos come together they can offer more than what each could do individually,” Consul General Mangalile said. “Coffee and chocolate pairing, people get to see the synergy between two different but related businesses.”

As Filipino coffee continues to gain recognition for its distinctive qualities, the path to establishing a significant presence in the American market becomes clearer. With dedicated efforts from the government sector and a commitment to quality from coffee farmers and purveyors, Filipino coffee has the potential to become a soughtafter choice among coffee enthusiasts worldwide. n

16 OCTOBER 13-19, 2023 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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