102523 - Southern California Midweek Edition

OCTOBER 25-27, 2023 Volume 33 - No. 85 • 12 Pages

City of Los Angeles celebrates Filipino American History Month

by Donnabelle GatDula-arevalo AJPress

THE City of Los Angeles honored the thriving Filipino American community during its annual celebration of October as Fil-Am History Month (FAHM) with a lighting of City Hall and awards ceremony recognizing personalities and leaders.

The third annual celebration — led by LA Board of Public Works Commissioner Susana Reyes and Bureau of Street Lighting Executive Director and General Manager Miguel Sangalang — was held on Friday, October 20, culminating in the lighting of City Hall in the colors of the Philippine flag.

Meanwhile, other landmarks, such as the entrance of the LA Zoo and the Sixth Street Bridge in Downtown were also lit up.

During the ceremony, Reyes and Sangalang announced a scholarship program that would raise educational funds for future historians who are

expected to continue the legacy of celebrating the lives of the Filipinos settling in the United States.

The event’s surprise guest, actor/comedian Jo Koy, who was one of the Filipino-Americans awardees of last year’s FAHM celebration, pledged $25,000 to the scholarship program.

The FAHM committee also tapped the Philippine Airlines, the Philippines’ flag carrier, as one of the partners for the launch of the program. A silent bidding for a round trip ticket to the Philippines was carried out during the celebration to signal the kick off of the scholarship grant.

Sangalang told the Asian Journal on the sidelines of the event that the committee had been contemplating on this program but concrete details about it will be announced soon as part of the celebration of the month-long FAHM. “This is just our way of making sure that we have new historians in the future that would be writing u PAGE 2

LOS ANGELES City Hall is lit up in the colors of the Philippine flag on Friday, October 20 during its annual celebration of Filipino American History Month.

AJPress photo

US, Philippines reaffirm alliance after China’s dangerous maneuvers in WPS

USA

DATELINE Small landlords are encouraged to apply for the City of Los Angeles emergency renters assistance program FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

The program provides small landlords financial assistance LOS ANGELES — The City of Los Angeles Measure United to House LA (ULA) is now accepting applications for the Emergency Renters Assistance Program for small landlords. The City continues its efforts to prevent individuals from becoming unhoused through this program which provides financial assistance to small landlords who own 12 units or less and who have low-income residential renters with up to six months of unpaid rent as a result of COVID-19 or other financial hardship.

There is a short window to apply; the

This video frame grab from footage taken and released on October 22, 2023 by the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) through the Chinese embassy in Manila shows a collision between a Chinese Coast Guard ship (R) and a Philippine resupply boat (L) during a resupply mission in Second Thomas Shoal, in the disputed South China Sea. Handout / Chinese Coast Guard / AFP

the enduring alliance and friendship between our nations and discussed upcoming U.S.-Philippine engagements and ways to further strengthen our close partnership,” the statement read.

“Mr. Sullivan emphasized the ironclad U.S. alliance commitments to the Philippines under the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, which extends to armed attacks on Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces—to include those of its Coast Guard— u PAGE 5

MANILA — The Philippines and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to their alliance following China’s dangerous maneuvers during a resupply mission in the West Philippine Sea. According to a White House readout, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke with Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Año after Chinese vessels hit a Philippine resupply boat and a Philippine Coast Guard vessel.

“Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Año reaffirmed

Lawmaker pursues criminal charges vs ex-president Duterte over death threats by ian laqui Philstar.com

MANILA — Rep. France Castro (ACTTeachers) filed criminal charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, October 24 at the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office.

The Makabayan Bloc lawmaker, along with lawyers Tony La Viña, Rico Domingo, and others from the Movement Against Disinformation, initiated legal action in

response to Duterte's death threats against Castro. The death threats stem from her scrutiny of the confidential funds of vice president and Education Secretary Sara Duterte.

"Kailangan niyang harapin ang accountability sa matinding pagbabanta sa aking buhay (He [Duterte] must be held accountable for the serious threats to my life),” Castro said in a press conference.

The charges filed fall under Article 282 of u PAGE 4

Fil-Am candidate for state ‘No Filipino should be left assembly leads in California behind in Israel-Hamas conflict’ Marcos vows ‘world-class’ AFP D P C S. V Democratic Party vote u PAGE 3

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

by

LOS ANGELES – Jessica Caloza, the Filipino-American millennial running for a seat in the California State Assembly, emerged as the leading candidate in Assembly District 52’s California Democratic Party pre-endorsement conference vote over the weekend.

“As a lifelong Democrat, I am honored to have earned the support of a diverse coalition of so many local grassroots Democrats across the district,” said Caloza, a longtime public servant and community organizer, in a statement.

“Democratic activists make up the backbone of our party, and I’m proud to have earned their critical vote. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to all of the local delegates in AD-52 who gave me their support,” she said. u PAGE 3

elon orcalla Philstar.com

MANILA — A senior administration legislator is calling on the Marcos administration to do all it can in ensuring that no Filipino is trapped in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

“Let us stand united, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind, and reaffirm our commitment to their welfare during this critical period,” Rep. Ron Salo, chairman of the House committee on overseas workers affairs, said following the recent opening of the Egypt-Gaza border.

“It is crucial to seize this opportunity for the safe exit of Filipinos. We urge the Department of Foreign Affairs to coordinate closely with Egyptian officials and international organizations,” he said.

“It is imperative that we ensure Filipinos won’t be left behind when other nationalities are allowed to exit. Every effort must be made

to bring our countrymen home swiftly and securely. In the midst of this operation, maintaining clear and constant communication with Filipinos is paramount,” he said.

Eighteen Filipino repatriates arrived yesterday at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport from Israel.

They were the second batch of repatriates who arrived in the country over the weekend since Oct. 20.

As of October 21, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has assisted a total of 34 overseas Filipino workers through the provision of Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program.

Each repatriated OFW received P10,000 cash aid and food assistance worth P10,000.

“We will also endorse them to their respective DSWD Field Offices for possible provision of additional services,” Assistant Secretary for strategic communications Romel Lopez said.

Repatriation from Lebanon u PAGE 5

by

Malacañang file photo

atherine alente ManilaTimes.net

THE government will continue implementing programs and policies to make the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) "worldclass," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said.

"Rest assured that we will remain steadfast in transforming and modernizing the AFP into a world-class force that is respected by its counterparts and is a source of national pride," the president said during the traditional dinner for the AFP Council of Sergeants Major in Malacañang on Monday, October 23.

"So, let me likewise assure you that we will continue to implement programs and policies that will promote your welfare, and not only

those who are in active service but those whose families I consider also to be in active service. So, keep up the good work. Know that this administration and the entire country are behind you as you fulfill your duties to the nation," he added.

Marcos noted the enlisted personnel's crucial role as "the backbone of the military force."

Enlisted personnel comprise 90 percent of the troops, and their specialized abilities support the daily operations and institutional activities of the AFP. "You are vital to our sustained success of defending our state, our sovereignty, and our patrimony. It is, therefore, of utmost importance that we help each other and make sure that u PAGE 3

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2 OCTOBER 25-27, 2023 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

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From the Front Page

City of Los Angeles celebrates...

PAGE 1 our stories,” he said.

Just like the previous years, the City of LA FAHM celebration honors Filipino Americans in who have exhibited exemplary contributions to the nation in various fields; and who have helped preserve and take pride in the Philippines’ arts and culture.

Among the 2023 FAHM honorees are: DJ E-Man, vice president of music at Meruelo Media (music); chef and restaurateur Margarita Manzke (culinary); actor and comedian Nico Santos (TV/film); fashion designer Puey Quinones (fashion); Anna Lisa de Guzman (dance); beauty influencer and entrepreneur Patrick Starrr (influencer); and Broadway show “Here Lies Love” (Musical).

Quinones, in his acceptance speech, said that his designs have been a way to show his pride as a Filipino.

“I believe that fashion has the ability to transcend borders, and tell stories and I wanted to use my background to showcase the beauty and richness of the Filipino culture. Throughout my career, I have drawn inspiration from vibrant colors, intricate patterns and traditional craftsmanship of the Philippines. I have worked tirelessly to blend these elements with modern aesthetics, creating unique pieces that celebrate both my Filipino roots and American influence,” he said.

Santos — known for known for portraying Oliver T'sien in “Crazy Rich Asians” and sales associate Mateo Liwanag in

the NBC series “Superstore” — shared how he migrated to the U.S. 13 years ago.

“That’s one thing I love about being Filipino, we all truly look out for each other, lift each other up in every moment and it makes a difference and it made a difference in my life,” Santos said.

Starrr, meanwhile, is a Fil-Am make-up artist and social media influencer, with his own makeup brand, ONE/SIZE. “Being recognized as a make up artist in the United States and globally, the power of social media transcends borders beyond belief. I would say this year would be my 10 year anniversary in YouTube and I have amassed 400 million views for the last 10 years…” Starrr said.

He added, “We’re very grateful to be here in a country where we’re able to have a vote and say of who we want to be. As I stand on the beauty community, I am here to democratize media and give every one the power to vote to be who they want to be no matter what.”

“Here Lies Love” is the first Broadway production with an all-Filipino cast and is a musical based on the life of former Philippine first lady Imelda Marcos.

Deputy Consul General Maria Alnee Gamble, one of the guest speakers in the event, told Asian

LA Board of Public Works Commissioner Susana Reyes welcomes Bob DeCastro, an anchor and reporter for FOX 11 News, was the emcee guests to the annual FAHM celebration at City Hall. for the Oct. 20 FAHM event.

Photos by Jose Lozano

Journal in an interview that the Philippine government has ever since been supportive of all FAHM activities and initiatives.

“Philippine Consulate General is always with the Filipino American community in celebrating the Fil-Am History Month because it’s an acknowledgment from the host government of the accomplishments of what the Filipino community has contributed to the American government,” she said.

There are still a lot of Filipinos Members of the FAHM organizing committee are joined by the awardees ahead of the city in the different sectors in the hall lighting U.S., she said, that have yet to be recognized.

“There are so many Filipinos now that are serving in various capacities including in the military. They are saying that a lot of Filipinos are always in the medical sector but there are also a lot of Filipinos in the military, in defense, in local, federal and government offices so all these

Community leaders pose for a photo with surprise guest, comedian Jo Koy

Sangalang and Reyes with a representative on behalf of culinary arts awardee Margarita Miguel Sangalang, DJ E-Man and Susana Reyes Manzke (center)

Sangalang and Reyes with awardee, actor Nico Santos (center)

Sangalang and Reyes with awardee, Anna Lisa de Guzman of Malaya Filipino American Dance Arts (center)

Sangalang and Reyes with awardee, fashion designer Puey Quinones (center)

Sangalang and Reyes with awardee, beauty influencer and entrepreneur Patrick Starrr (center)

The Los Angeles Zoo on Friday, October 20 joined LA City Hall in lighting up the front entrance in the colors of the Philippine flag in celebration of Filipino American History Month.

Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Zoo

things are things Filipinos should be proud of,” the consulate official said.

The month of October commemorates the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the United States. This year's theme is: “1898: Recognizing 125 Years of Philippine-American History.”

125 years ago, the Treaty of Paris was signed and signaled the end of the Spanish-American War that led to the U.S. annexation of the Philippines.

Filipino Americans are the second-largest Asian American ethnic group in the United States. The yearly recognition of FAHM began in October of 1992 after a proposal by the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) in 1991.

California officially recognized the celebration in 2006, when

the California Department of Education placed FAHM on its official calendar.

The month became formally recognized by California three years later, when state Senator Leland Yee introduced a resolution to declare October as FAHM, which was later passed by the California State Assembly.

In 2009, the history month obtained federal recognition when the Senate of the 111th Congress passed a formal resolution proclaiming October as FAHM. It was in October 18, 1587 that marked the first recorded arrival of Filipinos in the United States specifically in Morro Bay, California, a state that continues to be home to a large sub-population of FilipinoAmericans. n

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Small landlords are encouraged to apply for...

PAGE 1 application period closes October 31, 2023, at 6:00 p.m.

"The landlord portal for the United to House LA Emergency Rental Assistance Program opens on October 23, and I encourage small landlords who own 12 units or less to apply," said Ann Sewill, General Manager of LAHD. "The program will pay landlords up to 6 months of rental arrears on behalf of low-income tenants who are at risk of homelessness due to unpaid rent."

Rental properties must be located in the City of LA to be eligible for the program. Once the small landlord application is submitted, tenants will be invited to apply. Rental arrears will only be provided to landlords on

behalf of tenants that meet the ULA ERAP eligibility criteria, and the small landlord has provided the following: • Proof of Landlord Photo Identification • Proof of Property Ownership • A Completed W9 - Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification • Proof of the tenant’s current monthly and past due rent.

Small landlords who own less than 12 rental units whose tenants have already applied during the tenant application period continue to be eligible for the program. Landlords that own more than 12 units must wait to receive a notification of their eligibility and then submit the required landlord

Dateline USa

documentation.

Financial assistance will only be payable to the landlord of the rental property. It is important for tenants to communicate with their landlord and provide accurate contact information to avoid problems or delays in applications being funded.

Landlord providers can apply three ways: online at housing. lacity.org Monday through Sunday, 24 hours a day, by phone at (888) 379-3150 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and inperson by visiting housing.lacity. org for application intake office locations.

To learn more about the program, visit http://www. housing.lacity.org. n

Fil-Am candidate for state assembly leads in...

PAGE 1

Caloza finished first place, receiving 45 votes (45.5 percent of those voting) while the other three candidates received a range of 0 to 16 votes. Since none of the candidates received over 50 percent of the vote, the party’s official recommendation was “No Consensus.”

Caloza –a first-generation immigrant who was born in Quezon City, Philippines–has gained highpowered endorsements from top elected leaders, including lawmakers Judy Chu and Ted Lieu, California Assembly Majority Leader Isaac Bryan,

Jessica Caloza, who is running for California’s 52nd district, finishes 1st place, with nearly triple the vote of the 2nd leading candidate.

If elected, she would make history as the first Filipina in the state legislature.

File photo

SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 25-27, 2023 3

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and State Senators Lola Smallwood-Cuevas and Dave Min. She is also backed by powerful unions— the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California State Council and the California Federation of Teachers. SEIU represents 2 million workers in health care, property services and the public sector.

Speaking at a recent campaign fundraiser, Caloza thanked her working-class parents who have inspired her to fight for working families.

“My mom was a cashier at different gas stations, at the 99 Cents store, and put herself through vocational school and retired as a nursing assistant,” Caloza told the Fil-Am community and business leaders who attended the event. “My dad was a janitor who worked his way up and retired as a hospital orderly.”

The Oct. 12 fundraiser was hosted by Emmy Award-winning producer Lisa Lew, the daughter of the late lawyer and former Monterey Park Mayor Gonzalo Monty Manibog, the first Fil-Am to become an elected official in Southern California.

If elected, Caloza would be the first Filipino woman in the state legislature.

Caloza was the first in her family to graduate from college. After graduation from UC San Diego, she knew she wanted to be in public service. “I saw how government can change lives,” she said.

She has served in various roles in government, most recently as the deputy chief of staff to California Attorney General Rob Bonta. Previously, Caloza served as a Los Angeles public works commissioner and also worked in President Barack Obama’s administration as an education policy advisor.

Jessica Caloza has also served as a community organizer on President Obama’s campaign and worked for social justice nonprofits that provided critical services to immigrants, working families and youth.

The 52nd Assembly District includes parts of Highland Park, Eagle Rock, Glendale and Silver Lake. The incumbent, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo, is retiring to run for the L.A. City Council District 14. (Nimfa Rueda/Inquirer.net)

FEAR NOT. Masks meant to scare abound at the Divisoria commercial center in Manila on Tuesday, October 24 in preparation for the Halloween celebration on Oct. 31. Each mask sells for a minimum PHP35.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

Marcos vows ‘world-class’...

PAGE 1

they all reach their fullest potential so that they become well-rounded soldiers," the president said.

The president also acknowledged their efforts to stay attuned to the needs of the Filipino troops across the country and to boost their morale and welfare.

He lauded them for their efforts to ensure the "strong and unbreakable" bonds between the AFP officials and the troops that help steer the direction and performance of the enlisted personnel within their respective units.

"This is where you Sergeants Major come into the picture. As the most senior, most experienced, [and] most seasoned amongst our enlisted personnel, you help in implementing the plans and strategies that we are enforcing on the ground," Marcos said.

"So, for all of these things that you do, I have nothing but utmost respect and admiration for all of you and for all that you have done for our country, for our people, for our Armed Forces. So, continue to show them your selfless and dedicated service to the nation that enabled you to reach the positions that you occupy today," he added.

Marcos likewise commended them for engaging their counterparts from other countries, such as the United States, to discuss important issues, including the proposal

to create a mutually agreedupon Professional Development Program in support of the Philippines-United States Mutual Defense Treaty.

The president also expressed confidence that the sergeants major would continue to learn new skills, acquire more knowledge, and enhance their competence to fully realize the AFP's objectives.

The annual traditional dinner for the AFP Council of Sergeants

Major was attended by around 180 guests from the AFP, the Department of National Defense, and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Military and Police Affairs.

The event took place in conjunction with the celebration of the 27th Non-Commissioned Officers Week and the 54th Founding Anniversary of the Office of the AFP Sergeant Major. n

4 OCTOBER 25-27, 2023 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USa

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BLESSINGS. Security forces from the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine Navy, as well as officials of the Commission on Elections and the Department of Education, are sent off with a chaplain’s blessings during the sendoff and turnover ceremony of personnel and resources for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections at Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday, October 23. The elections will be held Oct. 30.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Lawmaker pursues criminal charges...

PAGE 1

the Revised Penal Code (RPC), aimed at addressing Duterte's tirades against Castro, which they said “pose a significant risk to her personal liberty and security.”

The provisions of the RPC cited by Castro and her lawyers pertain to grave threats. If found guilty, the penalty could include imprisonment for a period of one to six months, along with a fine, depending on the court’s discretion.

However, according to La Viña, the penalty may be elevated by one degree since it is also covered under the Cybercrime Prevention Act. “Duterte got away from many things because he had immunity,” La Viña said in the press conference.

“For the first time, we are holding him accountable in a Philippine court,” he added.

Under Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act, felonies punished under the RPC receive a penalty that is one degree higher.

On October 10, during a live television interview with Sonshine Media Network International, owned by his avid supporter Apollo Quiboloy, Duterte claimed that Castro was the "first target" of her daughter's confidential funds.

The video of the interview has since been deleted.

On October 15, House parties, including the former party of Rodrigo Duterte, urged the former president to stop the death threats and insinuations of harm against any member of the House of Representatives.

“We, leaders of all political parties in the House of Representatives, take utmost exception to the remarks made by former President Rodrigo R. Duterte,” they said in a statement.

During his presidency, Rodrigo Duterte was known for delivering public speeches that often included strong language, tirades and occasional death threats.

The House Committee on Appropriations scrapped the confidential funds of his daughter's office and reallocated them to various agencies responsible for West Philippine Sea security.

Immunity lapsed Castro and her lawyers hope that further charges will be brought against the former president, considering his immunity from prosecution.

La Viña, a dean and a law professor from the Ateneo School of Government, said that the former president can now be held accountable for the things he did.

“Pwede na mag-file for crimes committed before his presidency, during his presidency, and after his presidency (We can now file

charges for his [Duterte's] crimes committed before his presidency, during his presidency and after his presidency),” La Viña said.

“We are hoping na magbubukas (ito) ng wave of accountability lawsuits. (We hope that this will pave the way for accountability lawsuits against Duterte),” he added.

The president's immunity from prosecution is granted by the 1987 Constitution, specifically under Article 7.

At present, the lawyers said that they still have no basis for other possible charges against Duterte aside from grave threats.

“We’re sticking to the rule of law here. Even in the height of big problems, napapagalaw naman namin ang wheels of justice,” La Viña said.

(We’re sticking to the rule of law here. Even in the height of big problems, we make sure that the wheels of justice continue to turn.)

Human rights group KARAPATAN lauded Castro for filing charges against the former president.

“The fact that Duterte and his ilk have the gall to declare open season against their perceived enemies shows that they are able to hide behind the same climate of impunity that shielded them when Duterte was president. This has to stop,” Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay said in a statement. n

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Dateline PhiliPPines

DFA exec says 20 Filipinos in West Bank want to go back to PH

by Charie abarCa Inquirer.net

MANILA — Almost 20 Filipinos in the West Bank have signified their desire to return to the Philippines as fighting between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas intensifies.

“There are a few. Almost 20 [Filipinos who have signified their intentions]. But [their repatriation] would be easier,” Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said in a mix of English and Filipino during an interview with Radyo 630.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) official also said at least 122 Filipinos are in the West Bank, one of two designated Palestinian-occupied territories, the other being the Gaza Strip.

“Out of that, mga 20 ang gustong umuwi. Well, hindi magkaka giyera doon. Pero ‘yung peace and order [ang concern at] maraming protest ngayon. Mas madali ‘yun kasi tatawid lang [sila] ng Jordan,” he added.

(Out of that, about 20 want to go home. Well, there will be no war there. But peace and order [is the concern, and] there are

many protests now. That’s easier because [they] will just cross Jordan.)

De Vega did not provide more details, including the repatriation schedule, but noted that the Philippine government will bring them home as “soon as possible.”

The DFA has raised crisis alert level 2 over West Bank. The Philippine Embassy in Jordan said this alert level is issued when there are “real threats to the life, security, and property of Filipinos” arising from internal and external threats to the host country. n

Rice retail prices rise by P2 per kilo by bella Cariaso Philstar.com

MANILA — Retail prices of rice have increased by P2 per kilo amid the rising farmgate price of palay, according to retailers’ group Grains Retailers Confederation of the Philippines (GRECON).

In an interview with The STAR, GRECON national president James Magbanua said that in the Visayas alone, the buying price of fresh palay increased to P19 from P17 per kilo, and between P24 and P25 for dry palay.

“The farmgate price of palay has increased since last week and it follows that once the farmgate price goes up, the retail price of rice will also go up. The P45 per kilo and P40 plus per kilo of rice is still available,” Magbanua said.

He said the buying price of palay is higher in Luzon.

Farmers’ group Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) chairman Rosendo So earlier said the farmgate price of palay has reached P27 per kilo.

“The P27 per kilo buying price of palay is in Luzon. Here in the Visayas, it has yet to reach that level,” Magbanua said.

He said he does not agree with So’s proposal for President Marcos to impose another price ceiling of P45 per kilo on rice next month amid the

increase in the farmgate price of the staple.

“To me, the price cap is not advisable. It is not healthy for the economy,” Magbanua said.

He said that farmers benefit from the upward trend in the farmgate price of palay.

“For the first time, I did not hear farmers complain about the low buying price of palay,” he said.

Magbanua said the government should subsidize the retail price of rice instead of imposing a price ceiling.

“The government can subsidize, but not the price cap. If it will release funding, it is better to subsidize (the retail price of the grains),” he said, noting that farmers are encouraged to plant more because of the high buying price of palay.

“We need to implement a long-term solution to increase the yield (of the farmers) and lower the production cost.

These should include transfer of technology, modernization of the sector and lower the production cost of the farmers.

The government should address the high cost of farm inputs,” Magbanua said.

He gave assurance that the supply of rice amid the peak harvest season would be adequate.

Meanwhile, Raul Montemayor, national chairman of the Federation of Free Farmers (FFF), said that traders antici-

pate high farmgate prices after the peak harvest season and the possible impact of the El Niño phenomenon in the increase in the buying price of palay.

“There is an uptick in palay prices, which is good for farmers. But with the large harvest coming in, I don’t think prices will spike up very much.

If ever in the short-term only, but the increase in palay prices – when these should be going down during the peak harvest season – indicates that traders anticipate higher prices after the harvest months, probably because of the continued high international prices and possible effects of El Niño,” Montemayor said in a separate message to The STAR. Montemayor said he is validating reports that retail prices of rice have increased.

Like Magbanua, he also opposed a suggestion to reimplement the price ceiling on rice.

“This (increase in the retail price of rice) should not be a reason to impose price caps and end up depressing palay prices and penalizing farmers again for something that is not their fault. The best and most reliable way to offset the increase in international prices and effects of El Niño is to encourage, not discourage, farmers to plant more by giving them a good price for their produce,” he said. n

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5

‘No Filipino should be left behind in...

PAGE 1

The Philippine embassy in Beirut urged Filipinos in Lebanon to be voluntarily repatriated as tensions increase between Israel and Hezbollah.

“Due to the heightened tension in the southern border of Lebanon, the Philippine embassy calls for the voluntary repatriation of Filipino nationals,” the embassy said in its advisory.

Alert Level 3 was raised over Lebanon due to the worsening fighting related to the Israeli conflict.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said in a radio interview yesterday that “Filipinos are being informed that there is a program for repatriation and advised to go home.”

There are around 17,500 Filipinos in Lebanon.

On Tuesday, the embassy urged Filipinos close to Lebanon’s southern border to evacuate preemptively amid persistent tension in the border.

The embassy reminded Filipinos to “take caution and avoid public places, social gatherings, and unnecessary travels around Lebanon, especially to the South” due to the ongoing mass protests across Lebanon and persistent tension in the southern border, “posing a significant threat to the safety and security of civilians.”

Since violence escalated between Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory on Oct. 7, there have also been clashes on the border between Israel and south Lebanon, resulting in casualties among civilians.

Energy supply effects Meanwhile, the Department of Energy (DOE) is hoping the ongoing conflict between Israel and

Hamas will be contained as the agency continues to keep a close watch on developments abroad.

Asked if the country should now be worried about the conflict’s potential repercussions to the local energy sector, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said “we continue to monitor.”

The DOE earlier said it does not expect the attacks on Israel to have long-term effects on oil and gas prices, unless the conflict escalates.

Last week, however, concerns escalated as Israel’s expected ground offensive against Hamas in Gaza was feared to set up a regional war involving Iran.

“If dragged directly into the conflict amid the proxy war, Iran could potentially use as a threat the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, an important passage for international oil tankers, in retaliation to any action against it,” Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist treasury group Michael Ricafort said.

Latest data from the DOE showed that all crude oil imported by the country for the first half was sourced from the Middle East.

Bulk or 50.2 percent of it came from Saudi Arabia at 1,744 million liters, making it the country’s major supplier of crude oil.

This was followed by United Arab Emirates, which provided 26.9 percent equivalent to 936 million liters, while the remaining 22.9 percent, equivalent to 796 million liters, were imported from Iraq.

“To ensure a continuous, adequate and stable supply of oil in the country, the DOE still enforces the minimum inventory requirement (MIR),” the agency said.

“Current MIR for refiners stands

US, Philippines reaffirm...

PAGE 1

in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea,” it added.

Manila and Beijing have traded blame over Sunday’s incidents near Ayungin Shoal, with both sides filing diplomatic protests and releasing videos to support their accusations.

The Presidential Communications Office said Monday, October 23 that the incidents are “being taken seriously at the highest level of government.” President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. also ordered the PCG to conduct an investigation into the maneuvers of Chinese vessels.

No Filipino crew members were

injured, but one of the supply boats was damaged and forced to turn back. A second supply boat reached the BRP Sierra Madre and unloaded its cargo.

The Department of National Defense said Tuesday that it acknowledges the statements issued by the governments of France, South Korea and Japan supporting the Philippines.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered Monday the PCG to conduct an investigation into the maneuvers of Chinese vessels. (Gaea Katreena Cabico/ Philstar.com with reports from Agence France-Presse)

at in-country stocks equivalent to 30 days of crude and finished products, while an equivalent of 15 days stock of finished products is required for the bulk marketers/ importers and seven days for LPG importers,” it said.

The country’s imports volume of crude oil totaled to 3,476 million liters in the first semester, up by 23.7 percent from June 2022’s volume of 2,811 million liters. n

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL LACMTA will receive proposals for PS115757 - East San Fernando Valley Rail Vehicle Solicitation Support Services at the 9th Floor Receptionist Desk, Vendor/ Contract Management Department, One Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

A Pre-Proposal conference will be held on Monday, October 30, 2023, 11:00 a.m., via Virtual Meeting: Online.

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

All proposals must be received on or before 3:00 p.m.

Pacific Time on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at the address listed above, sent to the attention of Wan Fatimah Wan Nawang.

Proposals received later than the above date and time will be rejected and returned to the proposer unopened.

For a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our Solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro. net or for further information email Wan Fatimah Wan Nawang at wannawangw@ metro.net.

10/25, 11/4/23 CNS-3750780# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

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Features

OpiniOn

Maritime squatter

IT was described as a collision. But the West Philippine Sea is a vast expanse, and in fine weather, there is no reason for vessels in the area to be bumping into each other accidentally.

China, whose greedy claim over nearly the entire South China Sea has been invalidated by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, keeps trying to prevent the Philippines from carrying out resupply missions to soldiers stationed in the transport ship BRP Sierra Madre, which is grounded on Ayungin or Second Thomas Shoal.

The Philippines cannot let its troops, who are guarding the country’s maritime sovereign rights, starve to death or run out of needed supplies on the Sierra Madre.

Yesterday morning, China coast guard vessels again blocked a Philippine resupply mission to Ayungin. One of its ships and a Philippine vessel collided. Ayungin is within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone as defined under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Based on UNCLOS, to which both the Philippines and China are signatories, the arbitration court had declared that the Philippines has sovereign rights over Ayungin as well as Panganiban or Mischief Reef and Recto Bank. China should be asking the Philippines for permission to be in that area.

The arbitration court, in the same ruling that defined the Philippines’ maritime economic entitlements, also invalidated China’s entire ninedash-line claim in the South China Sea, and declared that Beijing is violating Philippine rights by keeping out Filipino fishermen from Panatag or Scarborough Shoal.

Beijing has tried to bolster its baseless maritime claims by taking over reefs including Panganiban in the South China Sea and turning these into military-fortified artificial islands, destroying the natural marine environment and posing a threat to freedom of navigation.

It deploys hundreds of militia vessels and coast guard ships, which are under its military command, to operate in swarms and try to keep Philippine fishing and patrol vessels out of the West Philippine Sea. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro has described China as a “squatter” in the West Philippine Sea. The government should do more to put an end to Chinese bullying. Yesterday’s collision should give urgency to mustering greater international support for a rules-based order in the South China Sea. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

APEC San Francisco summit preparations in full swing

Babe’s Eye View BaBe Romualdez The city of San Francisco in California is pulling out all the stops for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Conference in November, with an estimated 30,000 delegates composed of CEOs, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, media representatives and other key stakeholders together with world leaders from the Asia-Pacific region.

Several of my business friends joining the President privately messaged me wondering why San Francisco was chosen as the venue for APEC 2023. There has been a lot of news coming out depicting San Francisco as a deteriorating city due to the crime surge especially in the downtown area, but local officials, particularly the police, are putting things in order and tightening up security measures for such a high-level event as APEC, which has been described as the “Super Bowl of World Economies.”

The San Francisco police, the Sheriff’s office and the California

Highway Patrol are all working together with various federal agencies to secure the areas where the leaders’ summit and other conferences will be happening. Road closures and parking restrictions will be implemented, delivery vehicles entering the secure zones will be strictly scrutinized and screened, while flight and maritime restrictions on the bay will also be imposed.

The U.S. Secret Service of course is also involved in the preparations to help ensure the safety not only of the participants and the general public during the weeklong event but most especially the state leaders who will be taking part in the APEC Leaders’ Summit from Nov. 15 to 18, which has been designated by the Department of Homeland Security as a “national special security event.”

Recognizing that such a mammoth event will undoubtedly impact the residents of San Francisco, the Secret Service through Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeremy Brown had assured that the goal of their law enforcement and public safety partners is to “provide a secure environment

while minimizing impact and inconveniences to residents and businesses.”

While acknowledging the great opportunity to showcase San Francisco on a global scale, police chief Bill Scott also issued a warning that “any act of violence against any members of the public or against law enforcement will not be tolerated” and that all available resources will be used to protect the city.

The APEC is the biggest forum of international stature that the city will be hosting in almost 80 years, and local organizers are understandably excited at the economic boon that the event will bring to hotels, restaurants and other business establishments, with many expressing optimism that this would press the “restart button” for their tourism industry.

APEC economies – composed of the US, Japan, Australia, Canada, South Korea, Singapore, China, Brunei, Chile, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Russia, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines – account for close

to 40 percent of the world’s population or about 3 billion people, representing 62 percent of world GDP and 48 percent of world trade in 2021, with real GDP increasing from $19 trillion in 1989 to $58.2 trillion in 2021, according to APEC data.

Established in November 1989, APEC has since become a dynamic engine of economic growth and has emerged as one of the most important regional forums in the Asia-Pacific region. The idea of a regional economic and trade forum was first brought forth by the late Australian Prime Minister Robert James “Bob” Hawke in January 1989, when he gave a speech before a Korean business community in Seoul.

The idea was simple – economies in the region should help each other as they pursue more trade, partnerships and prosperity. Hawke saw the potential of the region in helping resolve global issues, and appointed then Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Richard Woolcott as his special envoy to hold consultations with leaders across the Asia-Pacific region on the possibility of holding a ministerial level forum. In

November 1989, the first APEC leaders’ meeting was held in Canberra, with the Philippines as one of the 12 founding members.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed his attendance at the Leaders’ Summit as early as August during a courtesy call in Malacañang by the members of the US-ASEAN Business Council (US-ABC) led by its president and CEO, Ambassador Ted Osius, who brought 30 members with him, the largest contingent ever to visit the Philippines. The US-ABC expressed interest in pursuing investments in a number of industries such as infrastructure, agriculture, clean energy, green metals and semiconductors.

We have been coordinating with the State Department for protocol, security and other details, with our San Francisco consulate taking the lead more or less in the arrangements for the President’s participation.

Consul General Neil Ferrer has been attending meetings and other activities relative to the preparations for the summit under the theme of “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All,” with

emphasis on building a more interconnected, innovative and inclusive APEC region to bring about economic recovery and long-term prosperity.

President Marcos, who is one of the speakers during the highlevel dialogue on “Intentional Equity in Sustainability,” has a very good opportunity to engage with the top CEOs and highlight the economic reforms that the country has been pursuing and implementing to attract more foreign investment and expand commerce, not only domestically but also globally.

The President will also bring into focus energy security which, as he has explained on several occasions, is high on his economic agenda, particularly in sustainable land, water and ocean solutions that align with the Philippines’ climate goals and will support plans to transform the Philippines into an upper middle-income country by 2025. (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

South China Sea: Three ticking time bombs

Horizons

RichaRd heydaRian AMERICAN leadership is what holds the world together,” declared United States President Joseph Biden amid an era of unprecedented strategic challenges, stretching across the Eurasian landmass and the IndoPacific. Accordingly, he called on the US Congress to support the expansion of defense aid to besieged allies in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

Billing himself as a “wartime president,” Biden asked for additional defense aid of $61.4 billion for Kyiv and $14.3 billion for Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, the entire Indo-Pacific theater, home to the world’s largest and most dynamic nations, would be entitled to $2 billion in additional funding. In many ways, the U.S. President’s speech was both understandable and baffling.

On one hand, Biden sought to present the US as an anchor of international stability as well as a reliable strategic patron to allies in multiple theaters of conflict.

Yet, the gap between the U.S. defense spending priorities, on the one hand, and the American

people’s threat perceptions, on the other hand, is quite telling.

According to the latest Pew Research Center survey, American people overwhelmingly see China (50 percent) as the greatest source of external threat, far ahead of Russia (17 percent) and North Korea (2 percent).

Interestingly, Biden himself and the U.S. defense establishment themselves have repeatedly identified China as the greatest challenge to American primacy throughout the years.

Moreover, the U.S. has been extremely generous to allies in both Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Last year, Ukraine received more than $46 billion in aid from Washington alone. As for Israel, it received more than $300 billion in military aid between 1946 and 2022. With both allies facing security challenges, the U.S. is signaling massive military aid for the foreseeable future.

And this, dear reader, brings us to the Philippines and, accordingly, existential threats in the West Philippine Sea. To put things into perspective: America’s total defense aid to the Philippines in the past decade has been barely above $1 billion, even as we have been confronting the world’s largest naval force in the South China Sea.

In fact, the Philippines is confronting three ticking time bombs in the South China Sea. First is, of course, the Scarborough Shoal, which was coercively overtaken by China in 2012 after Washington refused to decisively intervene on behalf of its ally. And as the latest developments suggest, a potential armed confrontation between China and the Philippines over the contested shoal is far from unthinkable.

Just as worrying is the simultaneous crisis in the Second Thomas Shoal. Our de facto base in the area, the dilapidated BRP Sierra Madre, is about to succumb to the elements, but China has made it crystal clear that they would intervene should we seek to refurbish our position in the area. So the Philippines is facing an impossible situation, whereby it risks either (i) confrontation with an Asian juggernaut or (ii) losing more sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. As if that weren’t bad enough, the Philippines is also running out of time to secure its energy security. The Malampaya plant is set to run out in the coming years, but we are yet to develop our energy resources in the Reed Bank area amid China’s constant harassment. Years-

China Coast Guard ship with bow No. 4302 shadows one of two Philippine Navy boats on a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. Inquirer.net file photo

long negotiations over a joint exploration deal, under a “service contract” modality, collapsed, thanks to Beijing’s refusal to respect both international law and the Philippines’ constitution.

Next to Taiwan, which faces the real prospect of a full-scale Chinese invasion, the Philippines is arguably the most besieged American ally in the Indo-Pacific.

And unlike America’s allies in other major theaters, we are yet to develop a minimum credible defense posture against a superpower.

Against this backdrop, we should welcome Vice President Sara Duterte’s (surprisingly) statesmanlike intervention last week, namely her call for a (humanitarian) ceasefire and “long-term peace” in the Middle East. We should also hope that Ukraine will soon be in a position to negotiate for peace from a position of strength in order to best protect its sovereignty against an aggressive Russia. The reality is that the Philippines can’t deal with the China challenge without robust U.S. assistance.

Yet, the U.S. is no longer a “hyperpower,” namely the colossus that could intervene in multiple theaters effectively. And China, like no other revisionist actor, is in a position to threaten multiple U.S. allies in the IndoPacific. (Inquirer.net) *** 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.

*** rheydarian@inquirer.com.ph

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Dateline PhiliPPines

Zubiri: SC decision didn’t diminish Senate’s power

by CeCille Suerte Felipe Philstar.com

MANILA — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Tuesday, October 24 downplayed the impact of the Supreme Court (SC)’s decision denying the Senate’s petition challenging the constitutionality of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to bar executive officials from attending Senate hearings.

“It is my position that the ruling does not in any way diminish or disturb long-established doctrines on the legislative’s power to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation,” Zubiri said.

The SC denied the petition for certiorari and prohibition filed by the Senate, which challenged the constitutionality of Duterte’s memorandum barring executive officials from attending hearings conducted by the Senate Blue Ribbon committee on the budget utilization of the Department of Health (DOH).

Through a memorandum in October 2021, Duterte, through then executive secretary Salvador Medialdea, prohibited executive officials and employees from attending the Senate hearings on the government’s disbursement of COVID-19 funds.

Zubiri clarified that the Senate “respects the Court’s decision and the body will discuss how to move forward with this.”

He said they would “certainly study the decision and use it to strengthen our internal rules while preserving our constitutional mandate.”

The Senate president explained that the SC dismissed the case on procedural and not on substantive grounds – it considered the filing of the case as premature, saying that the jurisdictional issue raised by the executive branch should have been first resolved by the Senate using its own rules.

“We note that the decision recognizes and upholds the inherence and breadth of the power of Congress to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation, provided that the inquiry is material or necessary to legislation,” he said.

For former Senate president Vicente Sotto III, the SC decision only supported the Senate as a coequal branch of the executive, maintaining that he has yet to read the complete SC decision.

“While the SC denied the Senate’s petition, its decision only buttressed the independence of the Senate as a co-equal branch of the executive by declaring that the Senate rules should be followed in resolving matters within its committee’s jurisdiction,” Sotto said.

“Also, as already pronounced by the SC in the case of Senate vs. Ermita in 2006, the Congress has the right to compel the appearance of officials to hearings in aid of legislation, which the Senate used as a basis in its petition and still the case law on the matter,” he added.

Dissenting opinion Meanwhile, Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa asserted that the SC should not have dismissed the petition challenging the constitutionality of a Duterte’s 2021 memorandum.

In his dissenting opinion, Caguioa said the high court should not resort to “technicalities to conveniently justify” the dismissal of the petition and “ultimately, evade its obligation to be the final arbiter on questions involving the validity of the legislative or executive’s exercise of its authority.”

In the SC ruling, penned by Associate Justice Amy Lazaro-Javier, the high court found that there is no actual case or controversy ripe for judicial

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri

Philstar.com file photo

adjudication, considering that the Senate itself has its own rules in resolving committee jurisdiction challenges and should have resorted to that before bringing the case to the SC. The ruling also found that the memorandum posed no immediate or threatened injury to the powers of the Senate.

Caguioa argued that the SC’s power of judicial review is based on its duty to settle actual controversies and determine whether there has been grave abuse of discretion on the part of any branch or instrumentality of the government.

“More than a power or authority to settle disputes, the court has a duty to fulfill its role in the system of checks and balances,” he said.

He added that it is “completely illogical” to claim that there was no immediate or threatened injury to the powers of the Senate with the issuance of the memorandum, since executive branch officials attended the previous hearings prior to the order.

“I therefore disagree with the pretextual dismissal of the petition because of the supposed absence of an actual case or controversy before the court. That is simply not the case,” Caguioa said.

“By dismissing the petition on the ground of prematurity, the court deliberately closed its eyes to the public statements of the President prior to and contemporaneous with the issuance of the subject memorandum,” he added.

The associate justice also argued that it is a “trivial and vain exercise” to require the Senate to rule on its own on the jurisdictional challenge before filing a petition before the SC, saying the Senate’s petition mainly questioned the constitutionality of the memorandum.

“This bone of contention presented by the Senate is already beyond and above a mere assertion of its jurisdiction to conduct inquiries and to compel the executive officials to again attend its hearings.

This time, the Senate is already questioning the constitutionality of the action of a co-equal branch,” he said.

“When there is a perceived encroachment by one branch of the government on the mandate and functions of the other, there is no other arbiter than the court itself,” he added.

Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo and 12 other SC justices concurred with the ruling penned by Javier, all of whom are Duterte’s appointees.

Caguioa and Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, who were appointed by Duterte’s predecessor, the late former president Benigno Aquino III, issued dissenting opinions. n

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Kathryn Bernardo and Dolly de Leon discuss ‘A Very Good Girl’ and the rise of Filipino cinema

by Klarize Medenilla / AJPress

F there’s one thing to glean from the global economic downfall of the last few years, it’s that people are becoming more privy to the unjust system of power and wealth that I gatekeeps opportunity for upward mobility.

Over the last few years, art and entertainment media have depicted this system of rapacious greed, providing a colorful landscape of social commentary that transcends language, cultures, and geography — stories that fantasize and explore vengeance with comedy and cynicism.

A recent entry into this theme of twisted revenge comes in the form of “A Very Good Girl,” a black comedy film directed by Petersen Vargas and presented by ABS-CBN and Star Cinema that stars the Queen of Philippine Cinema Kathryn Bernardo and BAFTA-nominated Dolly de Leon.

“A Very Good Girl” — which was released in the United States on Oct. 6 — tells the story of a young working-class woman named Mercy (Bernardo) and the fascinating series of events that begins with her being fired by the swanky retail mogul Mother Molly (de Leon). Mercy then takes on the dark persona of Philo, a fake socialite who’ll do anything to keep up the mirage, in order to get back at her former employer.

The film, which was initially written by Marionne Dominique Mancol, embraces camp and theatrics as it portrays, rather lavishly, the brutal reality of how far a woman will go to attain high standing in modern society. It’s a story that doesn’t seek to villanize women like Mercy or Molly, but instead, it’s an interpretation of a social hierarchy that is designed to uphold an unjust status quo.

Bernardo, whom global audiences

recognize from the countless roles in romantic films and otherwise likable sweet-girl roles, conquered this new assignment and effortlessly embraced the darkness needed to vacillate between Mercy and Philo.

At a press junket on Oct. 5, Bernardo told reporters that she sought to broaden her range as an actor and that this role was her first step into layered, morally questionable roles and characters.

“This role is not like the usual roles I’ve portrayed, but as an actor, you always want to do something different and you need to offer something to the fans,” Bernardo told the Asian Journal. “It was for my personal growth as well, so while I had a hard time with this movie, I really like to challenge myself.”

De Leon, who gained global recognition for her stand-out role in the Palme d’Or-winning “Triangle of Sadness,” is a BAFTA-nominated and Golden Globe-nominated actor whose decades worth of experience in TV, film, and theatre is epitomized in her performance of the opulent Mother Molly.

The effortless chemistry between Bernardo and de Leon is as clear on screen as it is off-screen. Both actors expressed appreciation for each other and described an “amazing support system” among all the crew of “A Very Good Girl.”

“We really created a family, and you know how sometimes you’re in a work environment where there’s at least one person you don’t like? In our case, that never happened because we loved each other,” Bernardo beamed.

“A Very Good Girl” also ushers in a new chapter in the career of de Leon, who is 54 years old and shows no signs of slowing down. De Leon said she’s thankful for the current cultural push for greater opportunities for female actors, who historically saw roles become more limited as they aged.

“This generation [of artists] are very Continued on Page 9

community

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 25, 2023

Los Angeles City Hall gets bathed in the colors of the Philippine flag Don’t give Halloween hazards a ghost of a chance SCE offers tips for safe and smart decisions about candles, costumes and decorations that are key to preventing accidents

By Paul Netter

RIDDLE me this: What’s scarier than spooky Halloween decorations or ghoulish costumes?

For safety experts, the answer is easily the hazards inherent in wearing and displaying spooky décor. Now consuming all of October, Halloween is more than a single night of trick-ortreating or partying. This year’s record $12.2 billion in estimated Halloween spending reaffirms it — with only Christmas featuring more decorative lights.

It is those lights — the electronic kind and the candles that people use to light jack-o’-lanterns — that lead Southern California Edison to join fire and public safety departments nationwide in urging customers to wear, install and maintain their decorations and costumes safely to prevent electrical and fire accidents, injuries and property damage.

Most notably, installing light strands on homes, trees or vegetation can bring decorators close to power lines, which they should always stay at least 10 feet away from (and call 911 if they ever see downed lines). Use a spotter to assist with identifying the hazards of working in an elevated position, especially near electrical lines.

It’s also wise to avoid burning candles, especially in California during wildfire season, when 60% of candle fires start when flammable items like decorations are too close.

“Flameless candles and glow sticks are safest for illuminating any decorations, especially jack-o’-lanterns,” said Nicole Kraus, senior advisor of Enterprise Risk Management & Public Safety at SCE. “While we all love the scariest and most realistic-looking costumes and decorations, they should always be chosen with safety top of mind to eliminate potential hazards from your Halloween celebrations.”

That safety would also include wearing only flame-resistant costumes, keeping highly flammable skeleton and ghost decorations at least three feet away from heat sources, inspecting lights and cords before decorating and discarding any damaged ones.

Here are some additional dos and don’ts for celebrating Halloween safely: HALLOWEEN DOS: • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how many light strands to connect.

• Use plastic zip cords when hanging lights instead of staples, tacks and nails.

• Avoid unsafe and counterfeit electrical decorations, using only those bearing the labels of trusted independent safety organizations like UL Solutions.

• Use only fiberglass or wooden telescoping or long-range tools, staying at least 10 feet away from power lines while remembering that vegetation may block visibility.

• Avoid overloading extension cords by following the manufacturer’s instructions when connecting them to light strands.

• Consider LED lights that generate less heat and are more efficient.

• Make sure all smoke alarms are working.

• Turn off all electrical decorations when leaving home or going to bed.

HALLOWEEN DON’TS: • Never connect two extension cords to extend their length, and never place them in pinched positions.

• Never use electrical products outdoors that are marked “for indoor use.”

• Never use metal ladders since they conduct electricity.

• Never decorate power poles.

• Never block escape routes with decorations.

• Never leave batteries in decorations when storing them.

For more information on safety, visit sce.com/safety.

Kathryn Bernardo and...

From Page 9 open and very intuitive, and they’re interested in telling different stories of different people from different walks of life” De Leon shared with the Asian Journal while acknowledging that the industry has a long way to go for aging actresses.

She continued, “I think we need to tell more stories about women from my demographic, and I’m hopeful we’ll eventually get there. I’m very fortunate enough to be able to get very meaningful roles at my age and I hope that it keeps happening.”

De Leon added that she hopes that the success of films like “A Very Good Girl” will inspire studios and producers to invest in stories that represent middle-aged and older women in more textured ways.

In order to play Mother Molly, de Leon told the Asian Journal that she didn’t look to any real-life figures or fictional characters for her performance. But de Leon’s

personality and values could not be any further from that of the haughty Mother Molly, who had no problem firing a determined, working-class employee.

As the American film industry is revolutionizing amid the multiple strikes in Hollywood, de Leon expressed appreciation and solidarity for the broader effort to recognize the work of actors and creatives.

“I find it so inspiring. It’s a very sad time because a lot of people are out of jobs, but I think it happened when it should have happened,” de Leon said of the writers and actors strikes.

In an even further departure from the character she plays in “A Very Good Girl,” de Leon added, “Change can be painful, but we have to go through this change so that we get fair wages and are not exploited by AI. So I think [the strikes] have been a great thing. We have to do whatever it takes to just make things better for us as workers.”

Commentary

Edgar B. Badajos AS part of the month-long celebration of FilipinoAmerican History Month this October, the iconic Los Angeles City Hall building was bathed in the colors of the Philippine flag in the early evening of 20 October. City officials, Philippine Consulate representatives, and Fil-ams representing local government, businesses and community organizations gathered at the City Hall grounds to witness the momentous occasion.

Although October was first officially declared as Philippine American History Month in 2009 by virtue of a resolution introduced in the California State Assembly by former State Senator Leland Yee, it was only in 2019 when lighting of the city hall in Philippine colors began with then Eric Garcetti as mayor and through the pioneering efforts of Ms. Jessica Caloza, a Fil-Am and former

LA Commissioner of the Board of Public Works. Every year since then, the City Hall lighting ceremony has become a muchawaited occasion by the Filipino diaspora in Southern California and beyond.

Completed in 1928, Los Angeles’s City Hall has a total of 32 floors. At 454 feet (138 m) high, it is the tallest baseisolated structure in the world.

It has a neoclassical base with an Art Deco tower. In 1976, it was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument.

Just as the structure is a historic landmark in Los Angeles, lighting it in the colors of the Philippine flag is also of historic proportions. I say this because to me, this act rightfully shines light on the hard-fought and well-deserved recognition of the Filipino immigrant community as a full-pledged member of the city’s social, familial, political, and economic landscape.

Indeed, from the first documented landing of a handful of Filipinos in what is now Morro Bay in San Louis Obispo, California in 1587 as crew members of a Spanish galleon en route from Manila to Mexico, to the sprinkling of Filipino immigrants in the Continued on Page 11

Photos from Jose Lozano

10 community The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 25, 2023

Modifying down child and spousal support obligation after a divorce Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes DIVORCED parties are sometimes ordered to pay child support and spousal support in the divorce judgment. The support orders are generally based on the parties’ financial situation and custody arrangements at the time of the settlement or trial. However, what if your income decreases after the divorce or what if your spouse’s income increases after the divorce due to a promotion or a better paying job? Do you have the right to modify your

support obligation?

If your income has gone down substantially from the time that the child or spousal support determination, you may be able to file a modification of your support obligation. Losing a job or having less income constitutes a material change of circumstances that would allow the court to modify down your support obligations.

Child support in California is based on guideline formula.

One of the factors that is considered in the guideline formula is your gross income.

Usually the court would look at several months or even an average of the last 12 months income. If your average income has decreased, you may be able to modify your child support to a lower amount. Bear in mind that there are other factors that

come in the equation such as the amount of actual timeshare you spend with your child and the income of the other parent.

If the other parent’s income has gone down, this may adversely affect your child support obligation.

Spousal support may also be modified unless you stipulated in a divorce judgment that it is non modifiable.

However, spousal support are usually calculated differently than guideline. The court will look at other factors in deciding whether to modify this. Those factors are listed in family code section 4320.

If you are unemployed, the other party may be expected to try to impute income on you.

However in light of the recent cases in California, they would Continued on Page 11

Oliver Tolentino shows native fabrics in Beverly Hills

LOS ANGELES – The Philippine Ballet Theatre, the pre-eminent ballet company in the Philippines under the aegis of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, is set to perform “Music in Motion” at Royce Hall on the campus of UCLA on Saturday, October 21. The 26-member company will present a stunning program that weaves classical ballet with indigenous and traditional Filipino dances in a presentation that features special appearances by the acclaimed concert pianist Dr. Raul Sunico as well as the Concert King of the Philippines, Martin Nievera.

“Act 1 is called ‘Ibalon’, an original Filipino ballet lifted from the well-known Bicolano,” explained Marilou Magsaysay, president of Philippine Ballet Theatre. “It is a story of love and kindness, the very things this world needs most of. It features Ron Jaynario’s choreography of colorful dances from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao accompanied by original music from Paulo Zarate.”

Executive producer Rosie Chua is planning an unforgettable night of entertainment. “Our dear friend, Martin Nievera, will be singing some of his most popular songs accompanied by acclaimed concert pianist Raul Sunico,” explained Chua.

“And they will be joined by the PBT dancers on stage for a spectacular celebration of the upcoming holiday season!”

“I always look for an excuse to sing before an L.A. audience,” confessed Nievera.

“And to be able to sing my hit songs, including a Christmas song that I wrote myself and put to dance would be a treat, especially for me!”

There are many other surprises awaiting patrons of the one-night-only presentation. A pre-concert VIP reception will showcase the contemporary designs of Cora Manimbo. The self-taught designer creates

Teal pina & silk gown Waldorf Astoria Photo by Maury Phillips Getty Images for World Trends The Shows with Planet Fashion

Green ball gown from final walk Photos by Esteban Bonilla for designer

Natural eco abaca swirl bell skirt

Natural eco black striped pants with abaca ruffled blouse

wearable fashion from indigenous Philippine textiles (piña cloth from Aklan; abel from Ilocos Norte; malong and yakan from Cotabato; Ifugao from the Mt. Province, etc.) and has made a name for herself amongst her Philippine fashion-conscious clientele.

The reception will also present traditional Philippine cuisine prepared by Arko Foods. The VIP reception package includes priority seating.

“Music in Motion” marks Philippine Ballet Theatre’s third appearance in Los Angeles with a new presentation. “Their performances are always breathtaking and inspiring, and I know that our audience will be amazed!” said Chua, who is overseeing this special evening of Philippine cuisine and talent.

All audience members will be eligible for a raffle drawing with the winners receiving a genuine pearl necklace,

domestic airline tickets to destinations of their choice and other prizes. The grand prize winner will receive a roundtrip ticket to the Philippines sponsored by Philippine Airlines, the major sponsor of “Music in Motion.”

During the Holiday celebration segment, the stage will be decorated with Philippine made parols especially designed for this performance. Audience members will have the opportunity to purchase these parols after the show and can also enjoy traditional Christmas treats and delicacies from Arko Foods. The evening show will be hosted by ABC7 field reporter Christiane Cordero.

“This show is also a small fundraiser,” added Chua. “We will be supporting the Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.”

“Music in Motion” is proudly sponsored by Asian Commodities, Philippine Airlines, Arko Foods, Island Pacific Supermarket, GTT International, LBC, Ascott Limited Philippines, Ambrosia Delights, One La Salle, Gerry’s Restaurant & Bar, Print Hub USA, Mama Sita’s and Max & Lucy’s along with support from Asian Journal, So Jannelle, US Asian Post and Weekend Balita.

UCLA students, faculty, staff and administration can take advantage of a $5 discount on any price tiers by showing a valid UCLA I.D. at Central Ticket Office.

“We hope the Bruin campus Oliver Tolentino Waldorf Astoria Oct 19, ‘23 population can support this natural eco checkered skirt with abaca Red eco final gown on model Tutay Maristela fantastic ensemble of artists ruffled blouse who are coming from the Philippines to share their talents in this unforgettable show,” said Ted Benito, who is producing the presentation for LXV Enterprises, LLC. “It’s rare for audiences to experience this magical mix of traditional classical ballet and indigenous Philippine dance.

It’s going to be a phenomenal performance!” he exclaimed.

Tickets are $200 (which includes the VIP-reception package), $100, $75, $50 and balcony seats at $35. Patrons should go to ROYCEHALL. ORG or call 818.859.3108 or 213.458.0582 for tickets and Purple ball gown Natural eco navy blue gown with pina petals further information.

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

FOR RENT

community 11 The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 25, 2023

Alethea Ambrosio from Bulacan is The Miss Philippines

By Armin P. AdinA Inquirer.net

Los Angeles City Hall gets...

From Page 10 early 1900s, Filipinos today comprise one of the largest Asian groups in the entire state of California and third largest in Los Angeles behind the Chinese and Indians. And Filipinos have made their presence felt not only through the sheer size of their community, but also by being generally successful at integrating themselves in all aspects of American life.

Whether it be in the arts, media, and entertainment industry, trade or business, or in the political arena, the Filipino community has made inroads and made a difference well beyond the ordinary.

California’s incumbent Attorney General is Rob Bonta, the first Filipino-American to hold that position. The city’s “chief accountant and paymaster” is Kenneth Mejia. He is the first Filipino elected official of the City of LA, and the first Asian American to be elected to the position of City Controller. The Commissioner of the Board of Public Works of Los Angeles, Ms Susana de Los Reyes, and the Executive Director and General Manager of the City of Los Angeles Bureau of Street Lighting, Mr Miguel Sangalang, are both of Filipino descent. APL.D.APP., Olivia Rodrigo, Bruno Mars, Jokoy, and Cher Calvin of KTLA 5 News have become household names in America’s music, entertainment, and media industry. In business, several Fil-ams have made it to the big league, including the stylish Mrs. Priscilla Dulay Hunt, president and CEO of a multimillion dollar residential and commercial real estate leasing company; business-savvy Mr. and Mrs. Rupert and Grace Mercado-Ouano, owners and proprietors of three (3) skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers in Northern and Southern California; socialite couple Dr. Edwin and Lani Raquel whose other claim to fame is as owners of a magnificent estate in a gated community in Los Angeles that was once the home of the late “America’s Sweetheart,” Mary Pickford; and Fil-am power couple Roger and Cora Oriel, owner and publishers of “Asian Journal,” the largest Filipino-

American printed newspaper in Southern California with branches in San Francisco, San Diego, New York, and Las Vegas. Recently, the Oriels ventured into the wine industry.

If they are not attending to their newspaper business, they are busy developing Philippine distribution networks for their Napa Valley-produced Monte Maria wines.

But the journey of the Filipino immigrant has not always been easy. It is welldocumented that there were many road bumps along the way, including specifically, racial prejudice. Many a time, these road bumps challenged the world-renowned patience and tenacity of the Filipino immigrant in the face of adversity. On many occasions, the road bumps forced the Filipino immigrant to wonder whether America is truly a land of opportunity where the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness is guaranteed to everyone regardless of race, sex, creed, or political belief, or just an imagined reality where nativism and xenophobia are the rule, making some groups feel like second-class citizens.

This month’s celebration of Filipino-American history, therefore, is a poignant reminder of not just the Filipino immigrant community’s triumphs and successes through the years, but also of the many trials it faced and hurdled along the way. For it is not so much the triumphs that built and defined, and will continue to shape, the character of the Filipino immigrant community as did the trials.

As for the lighting ceremony, it is a dramatic reminder to Angelenos, if not all the peoples of the United States, that the Filipino immigrant community is now as much an integral part of mainstream America as any other American or immigrant community on the street. No amount of racial prejudice, in any form or style, can change or erase that.

Mabuhay ang Filipino sa Amerika! *** Mr. Edgar Badajos is a career Philippine Foreign Officer. He is presently serving as Consul General at the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles.

Photos from Jose Lozano

Modifying down...

From Page 10 have to prove that you had the ability and the opportunity to obtain employment.

If your income has gone down or your spouse’s income has increased as a result of a new job, a promotion, or you got laid off or hours cut, it may be possible to modify both your child support and spousal support obligation. Without modifying the order, the current order will continue to be in effect and the same amount will accrue regardless of whether your income declined or your spouse income increased.

It is important to file a post judgment request for order to modify support as soon as your financial situation changes. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended

to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010.

Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

ALETHEA Ambrosio from Bulacan bested 20 other aspirants from across the country and Filipino communities in the United States in The Miss Philippines Culture and Heritage Celebration at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Oct. 24.

Ambrosio inherited the title from Miss Supranational first runner-up Pauline Amelinckx, who was crowned as the first The Miss Philippines titleholder upon her arrival from her competition in Poland in July.

This is the inaugural edition of the national search, that sought an ambassador for Filipino culture and heritage.

The counterpart male competition Mister Pilipinas Worldwide also held its final contest in the same evening, with Brandon Espiritu from Guam topping the field of 17 aspirants.

Both winners have earned the right to represent the Philippines in prestigious international competitions, which will be announced early next year by organizer Empire Holdings Inc., the same team behind the annual Miss

Mister International Kim Goodburn, Miss Supranational Andrea Aguilera, and Miss Asia Pacific International Chaiyenne Huisman are at The Filipino Festival finals for Miss Philippines and Mister Pilipinas Worldwide.

Photo from The Filipino Festival

Universe Philippines pageant.

The winners also received their own Wuling electric mini vehicles, and custommade trophies exclusively designed by Jef Albea for the competitions.

Ambrosio was the only candidate who spoke in full Filipino in both rounds of questioning.

Joining her in the final four were heavy favorite Chantal Schmidt from Cebu City, Isabelle Delos Santos from Mandaluyong City, and Blessa Figueroa from the Filipino community of Northern

California.

Espiritu had bigger company with five co-finalists, Jordan San Juan from Bulacan, Dom Corilla from California, Justin Ong from Tacloban, Emerson Gomez from Tarlac, and Anthony Cunningham from the United Kingdom.

All the finalists in both the male and female searches will also be sent to different international competitions.

Their global assignments will also be announced in February next year.

Reigning international titleholders attended the twin

events — Miss Supranational Andrea Aguilera from Ecuador, Miss Asia Pacific International Chaiyenne Huisman from Spain, and Mister International Kim Goodburn from Thailand. Thai actor Nattawat Jirochtikul also staged his Philippine comeback in the program.

The Miss Philippines and Mister Pilipinas Worldwide, both presented by Kemans, headlined the first-ever The Filipino Festival, a month-long celebration of the country’s culture and heritage through food, music, fashion, and film.

12

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - October 25, 2023

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