4 Filipino World War II veterans honored with Congressional Gold Medals
WAshiNGtoN – four filipino veterans of World War ii have been posthumously honored with congressional Gold medals for their outstanding wartime achievements, courage and sacrifice. the embassy of the Philippines in Washington, D.c., in partnership with the filipino Veterans recognition and education Project (filVetreP), presented the medals to the veterans’ families during the Nov. 7 ceremony ahead of Veterans Day. the embassy said the ceremony served as a “poignant reminder of the shared history and enduring alliance” between the Philippines and the United states the awards were given to the families of Petty officer first class Jose Baraquio, Us Navy, accepted by his daughter maria Bara-
Paychecks to federal employees expected to resume this weekend as payroll systems restart
feDerAL employees who missed more than a month of paychecks during the forty three day government shutdown are expected to begin receiving back pay as early as saturday, according to new guidance shared among agencies as operations restart. the shutdown, which began on october 1 and ended late Wednesday when President Donald trump signed a stopgap funding bill, was the longest funding lapse in United states history.
A planning document circulated by the White house office of management and Budget and reported by several national outlets indicates that the first wave of payments will be disbursed over the weekend, with most agencies completing back pay by November 19. Payroll offices across the federal government have been instructed to accelerate pro-
Longest US gov’t shutdown ends after 43 days of gridlock
by AJPress
by AJPress
mANiLA — former Public Works and highways secretary manuel “manny” Bonoan quietly left the Philippines for the United states on November 11, even as government investigators expanded their inquiry into al-
mANiLA — sen. ronald “Bato” dela rosa has escalated his fight against a potential arrest order from the international criminal court (icc) as he filed an urgent manifestation with the supreme court (sc) to stop the executive branch from bypassing domestic courts. in his urgent manifestation, dela rosa told sc that immediately surrendering a filipino citizen to icc without a lawful court
leged ghost and substandard flood-control projects implemented under his watch.
According to the Bureau of immigration, Bonoan boarded a flight via taiwan from Ninoy Aquino international Airport terminal 1, bound for the U.s the Department of Justice
mANiLA — the independent commission for infrastructure will recommend charges against “at least” three more incumbent and former senators, ici chair Andres reyes Jr. said on thursday, November 13, without disclosing their identities. the ici has already sought plunder and bribery cases against senators Jinggoy estrada and Joel Villanueva over the anomalies in Bulacan’s first district engineering office.
Asked if the new senators involved are different from estrada and Villanueva, reyes said “yes.” As for congressional representa-
tives, reyes said it’s “premature” at the moment to divulge their names.
senators are the highest-ranking officials that the ici has endorsed for corruption-related charges before the office of the ombudsman. During the congressional probes in the previous months, five senators have been implicated by public works officials in the flood control scam.
former Bulacan first district assistant engineer Brice hernandez first accused estrada and Villanueva during the house infrastructure committee’s hearing on sept. 9. hernandez alleged that both senators received 30 percent “soP” from flood control projects.
of the most influ-
controversial, and enduring figures in modern
on thursday, November 13,
politics,
he was 101. his daughter, Administrator and ceo of ceZA (cagayan economic Zone Authority) Katrina Ponce enrile, said her father passed away peacefully at home at 4:21 p.m., surrounded by family. he had been confined in an intensive care unit for pneumonia in the days before his death. President ferdinand marcos Jr. expressed condolences and described enrile as a long-standing presence in government whose influence extended across political eras. Born Juan Valentin furagganan Ponce enrile sr. on february 14, 1924 in Gonzaga, cagayan, he rose from modest provincial beginnings to become a central figure in Philippine governance. his academic achievements played a major role in shaping his future. enrile graduated cum laude from Ateneo de manila University with a degree in Business Administration, then
mANiLA — the senate on tuesday, November 11, 2025, re-elected senate President Pro tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson as chair of the committee on Accountability of Public officers and investigations (Blue ribbon), reinstating the veteran lawmaker to one of the chamber’s most powerful oversight posts. the motion, introduced by sen. JV ejercito, was approved without objection and affirmed by senate President Vicente “tito” sotto iii the move clears the way for the senate to resume its investigation into alleged irregularities in flood-control and public-works
projects under the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh). the probe had been on pause since Lacson stepped down in early october. Return to leadership after onemonth hiatus Lacson resigned from the post on october 6, citing procedural disagreements over how the committee hearings were being conducted. During his absence, sen. erwin tulfo served as acting chair. his re-election on November 11 ended a month-long leadership gap and restored a familiar figure to a committee known for its sweeping investigative powers. the Blue ribbon has already
by AJPress
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From the Front Page
Longest US gov’t shutdown ends...
Neither side shifted before the deadline, and the shutdown entered its first week. As negotiations stalled, the consequences widened across federal agencies, the nation’s air travel system and low income households dependent on federal assistance.
federal workers and public services hit hard
Under federal law, agencies must differentiate “excepted” work permitted during a shutdown from activities that must pause without appropriations. that process resulted in about nine hundred thousand federal employees being furloughed. hundreds of thousands more worked without pay across the Department of Defense, the transportation security Administration and air traffic control operations. scientific research projects were delayed. Passport and visa processing slowed. housing and small business programs paused. many museums and parks closed completely. some agencies signaled that if the shutdown stretched further, temporary furloughs could escalate into reductions in force, adding uncertainty to a workforce already facing separate restructuring plans introduced earlier in the year.
Altogether, an estimated 1.25 million federal workers missed paychecks during the shutdown.
Workers across the country relied on credit cards, community food programs and emergency savings to cover rent, utilities and medical costs.
Food assistance becomes a crisis point the shutdown’s most far-reaching impact on low income com-
munities was the disruption of the supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or sNAP, which serves roughly 42 million Americans. in late october, the U.s. Department of Agriculture notified states that federal sNAP benefits scheduled for November 1 could not be issued without new funding. Governors warned that states lacked the resources to replace federal benefits and said food banks would be overwhelmed. A coalition of more than two dozen states, along with the District of columbia, filed lawsuits arguing that UsDA should release contingency funds already appropriated by congress. federal courts directed UsDA to use available reserves to issue partial payments. UsDA instructed states to issue reduced November allotments while legal challenges continued. After the shutdown ended, UsDA announced that full benefits would resume once states updated their systems, though some delays were expected. Air travel disruptions intensified pressure Air travel became one of the earliest and most visible pressure points. Air traffic controllers and many federal Aviation Administration staff continued to work without pay during an already challenging staffing period. Absences increased into late october as workers struggled with fatigue and financial strain. to protect safety, the fAA and the Department of transportation ordered airlines to reduce scheduled flights at forty major airports. A four percent cut took effect on November 7, with plans for deeper reductions if staffing dropped further. By early November, thou-
sands of flights had been canceled, affecting holiday bookings, raising fares in some markets and generating widespread public frustration.
As congressional talks progressed and controller attendance improved, officials capped reductions at six percent and halted plans for more severe cutbacks. flight operations are expected to return to normal as staffing stabilizes.
Economic losses will linger the congressional Budget office estimated that the shutdown could permanently reduce economic output by seven to fourteen billion dollars, even after normal operations resume. federal workers collectively missed an estimated sixteen billion dollars in wages, according to national analyses. contractors, who are not guaranteed back pay, are expected to sustain lasting financial losses.
economists say some activity will rebound as back pay is issued and federal contracts restart. however, canceled travel, delayed hiring, paused research and broader uncertainty are expected to leave long-term effects on sectors closely tied to federal spending.
How lawmakers broke the deadlock the breakthrough came in the senate after weeks of unsuccessful proposals. With flight cancellations mounting and states preparing emergency actions to address food benefit shortfalls, negotiators advanced a narrower agreement to reopen the government while scheduling a separate debate on health care.
on November 10, the senate approved the revised bill in a 60 to 40 vote, with several Democrats joining republicans. the house passed the measure 222 to 209. President trump signed it Wednesday night. the law funds the government through January 30, 2026, and includes a commitment to hold a December vote on the future of Affordable care Act premium subsidies. it also guarantees back pay for furloughed federal workers.
Agencies have begun recalling employees and restoring paused programs. the challenge ahead is whether congress can avoid another shutdown when the new funding law expires early next year.
Juan Ponce Enrile dies at 101, martial law figure...
earned his Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines, graduating cum laude. he placed eleventh in the 1953 Bar examinations. he later pursued graduate studies in the United states, completing a master of Laws from harvard University. his academic record became one of the foundations of his reputation as a legal strategist and policy thinker.
enrile’s government career spanned more than six decades. he served as finance undersecretary, customs commissioner, acting insurance commissioner head, secretary of Justice, and secretary of National Defense under President ferdinand marcos sr. he later served four terms as senator, held the senate presidency from 2008 to 2013, and presided over the 2012 impeachment trial of chief Justice renato corona. his final role in government was as chief Presidential Legal counsel to President marcos Jr. from 2022 to 2025. his career was marked by sharp turns. As defense minister, he helped implement martial law in 1972. A reported ambush of his car days before the proclamation was cited by marcos as part of the rationale for the decree. historians have long debated the authenticity of the incident, though enrile insisted in interviews and memoirs that the ambush was real. human rights groups and official historical studies have documented that the martial law years were marked by widespread vio-
lations, including warrantless arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings. enrile denied involvement in abuses and said the military operated under difficult security conditions at the time. in february 1986, enrile broke with the marcos administration. Alongside Armed forces Vice chief of staff fidel V. ramos, he withdrew support from the president. their defection galvanized the eDsA People Power revolution, which led to the peaceful ouster of marcos and the installation of corazon Aquino as president. enrile briefly returned as defense minister under the new administration but left the government that same year and was detained for alleged rebellion. the charges were later dismissed.
enrile rebuilt his political base in the senate. first elected in 1987, he returned in 1995, 2004, and 2010. he became known for his mastery of legislative procedure and his ability to navigate political conflict. As senate President, he presided over high-profile hearings and major debates, including the impeachment of chief Justice corona.
his later years were shaped by legal battles. in 2014, he was charged with plunder and graft for allegedly diverting about 172 million pesos in Priority Development Assistance fund allocations to nongovernmental organizations linked to Janet Lim Napoles. he surrendered voluntarily and was placed under hospital arrest. the supreme court granted him bail in 2015
on humanitarian grounds. on october 4, 2024, the sandiganbayan acquitted him of plunder, and on october 24, 2025, the court cleared him of remaining graft charges after ruling that prosecutors failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt. enrile married cristina castañer enrile in 1957. their two children, Juan “Jack” Ponce enrile Jr. and Katrina Ponce enrile, later pursued careers in business and public service. he was a grandfather to several grandchildren. the family said wake and interment details will be released soon. outside politics, enrile maintained significant business interests. he founded enrile and company and later chaired the JAKA Group, a family-owned conglomerate engaged in manufacturing, food processing, forestry, trading, and security services. he also maintained agricultural ventures in northern Luzon, which he often described as among his earliest livelihoods.
enrile’s legacy remains sharply debated. supporters view him as a skilled lawyer and strategist who influenced major transitions in the republic. critics regard him as a principal architect of the martial law system that curtailed civil liberties. his long career left an imprint on Philippine history that scholars and citizens continue to examine. enrile often said he had no regrets and would stand by his decisions because he believed they were made for the country. n
Former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile Inquirer.net file photo
Lacson returns as Blue Ribbon chair...
set friday, November 14, as the date for its next public hearing, marking the continuation of its flood-control inquiry.
We will continue this investigation where we left off,” Lacson told reporters after the session. “the goal is to ensure that taxpayers’ money is spent for the projects it was intended for.”
Focus of the investigation the ongoing probe centers on reports of overpriced, substandard, and “ghost” flood-control projects allegedly carried out in several provinces. Audit findings flagged irregularities in a P5.2-billion infrastructure allocation meant for flood-mitigation programs.
Parallel executive actions are also underway. the Anti-money Laundering council (AmLc), with approval from the court of Appeals, has issued multiple freeze orders targeting assets of individuals and contractors linked to the questioned projects. the office of the ombudsman and the inter-Agency coordinating investigation (ici) are conducting separate fact-finding reviews
to determine administrative and criminal liability. Lawmakers among next witnesses Lacson confirmed that the committee will summon former house speaker martin romualdez, former Ako Bicol rep. Zaldy co, and about 19 other members of the house of representatives to testify in the upcoming hearing. their names appeared in project documents and audit records flagged by the DPWh These are invitations, not accusations,” Lacson said, emphasizing that the proceedings will adhere to due process and focus on verified documentation rather than political conjecture. What Lacson’s leadership signals
A former national police chief and long-time anti-corruption advocate, Lacson is known for his methodical questioning and disciplined approach to oversight. his reinstatement signals renewed direction for a politically sensitive investigation that has drawn scrutiny over how infrastructure funds are managed and monitored. observers note that Lacson’s
track record in fiscal oversight could bring structure and continuity to the proceedings, restoring momentum to a probe many view as a test of legislative independence and accountability. his leadership also underscores the senate’s continuing effort to separate political narratives from institutional reform. Next phase of the Senate inquiry the committee’s upcoming sessions will focus on procurement trails, contractor accreditation, and internal audit findings. senators are expected to invite officials from the commission on Audit (coA) and the Department of Budget and management (DBm) to clarify fund releases and project documentation.
Lawmakers from both chambers have urged restraint and objectivity, emphasizing that the hearings should produce legislative reforms rather than partisan spectacle. the outcome of the revived probe could determine whether new checks on infrastructure funding are institutionalized or whether the controversy fades like many before it. n
ICI includes 3 more current, former senators...
then, on sept. 25, former public works undersecretary roberto Bernardo dropped a bombshell at the upper chamber’s own turf: sen. chiz escudero and former senators Bong revilla and Nancy Binay reportedly also funneled kickbacks from flood works. All tagged senators deny the allegations.
Ghost project in Hagonoy the ici made its fifth referral to the office of the ombudsman on thursday, recommending a slew of charges against former top officials of the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh) over a ghost project in hagonoy, Bulacan.
six officials from the Bulacan first district engineering office— including henry Alcantara and hernandez—and the owner of Darcy and Anna Builders and trading are alleged to have committed malversation of public funds and falsification by a public officer, and violated the Anti-Graft and corrupt Practices Act, the Government Procurement Act, and Presidential Decree 1759. former DPWh secretary manuel Bonoan, undersecretaries roberto Bernardo and maria catalina cabral and six others should face administrative charges for grave
misconduct, gross dishonesty, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and violations of the code of conduct for public officers, according to the ici
At the heart of this referral is a P74-million riverbank protection structure in Barangay carillo, hagonoy, that turned out to be non-existent.
construction for the project— featuring a 15-meter front and 12-meter back steel sheet piles with a length of 161.20 linear meters—should have commenced by feb. 7, 2024, but three weeks after that, there was no structure built, according to Google historical images. even in the latest aerial image taken at coordinates 14.8607322 north and 120.7665879 east on oct. 15, no riverbank protection structure was found.
For emphasis, no construction was undertaken during or after the construction period,” the ici stated in its interim report. Despite this, the cash flow diagram shows that the project was completed eight months after construction commenced.
The DPWH officials of the Bulacan first district engineering office appear to have… conspired with Darcy and Anna Builders and Trading to facilitate the release of
government funds for a purportedly completed project which, in truth, was never implemented,” the ici explained.
Still no livestream meanwhile, it’s still uncertain when the public will be able to watch a livestream of the ici’s hearings.
reyes said the commission is still studying the rules governing it and will possibly provide an update on their progress by next week.
But what will the ici do as Bernardo is set to appear before them on monday?
“I think we might ask the person if he wants a livestream,” reyes said. “These are potential witnesses, and if they feel harm or threat to their safety, we might ask for that.” reyes has dismissed claims that the fact-finding body is do- ing favors for the administration.
he also responded to claims that his supposed favoritism stems from the fact that he is a marcos supporter. in another development, thePhilippine National Police has joined the ici and other key agencies in a nationwide effort to investigate and prosecute “ghost” flood control and infrastructure projects.
(With reports from Mark Ernest Villeza)
Ex-DPWH chief Bonoan’s US trip draws...
(DoJ) confirmed that there was no hold-departure order (hDo) or arrest warrant preventing his travel.
DoJ spokesperson mico clavano said Bonoan was cleared to leave to accompany his wife for a medical procedure and is expected to return by December 17, 2025.
clavano explained that Bonoan remains under an immigration Lookout Bulletin order (iLBo), which allows monitoring of a person’s movement but does not restrict travel. he added that only a court-issued hDo or arrest warrant could legally prevent departure.
A monitored departure amid widening scrutiny
Government officials said Bonoan’s trip was cleared under normal immigration rules because no legal order barred him from leaving. they confirmed that he is listed on an iLBo but faces no pending warrant or court directive. immigration officers have been instructed to log his re-entry upon his expected return in mid-December.
the DoJ reiterated that the iLBo serves for monitoring purposes only, ensuring that authorities are notified if a person under watchlist status departs or re-enters the country.
At the same time, the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) is reviewing approximately 80 flood-control projects
nationwide, including a P95-million project in Barangay Bambang, Bocaue, Bulacan, which state auditors earlier flagged as unimplemented despite full funding.
ICI expands probe, launches field inspections the ici confirmed that its latest investigation covers projects tied to contractors previously named in a presidential directive for deeper scrutiny.
ici executive Director Brian Keith hosaka said the commission’s referrals to the office of the ombudsman are proceeding as planned and that all recommendations are supported by documentation.
We’re just complying with our mandate. We recommend and refer to the Office of the Ombudsman and any other prosecutor or agency,” hosaka said in a recent
briefing. he added that investigators are now conducting on-site inspections to verify whether projects listed as completed exist on the ground. “At least 15 referrals to the Ombudsman [are] ready to be filed in the next two to three weeks,” hosaka told the Philippine News Agency. the commission’s field teams will visit Bulacan, cebu, and other flood-prone provinces to confirm project completion and determine whether funds were properly used.
From resignation to accountability Bonoan resigned as DPWh secretary effective september 1, 2025, amid increasing scrutiny over flood-control spending and project anomalies. he had served in the cabinet since mid-2022 folu PAGE 5
Former DPWH Secretary Manny Bonoan
Philstar.com file photo
DEEP-FRIED GOODNESS. Customers enjoy “kwek-kwek,” a
and often served with spicy vinegar. PNA photo by Ben Briones
4 Filipino World War II veterans honored with...
quiao; staff sergeant ernesto cesario, Us Army, accepted by his daughter flordelis cesario; staff sergeant marcial marasigan simpson, Us Army, accepted by his son michael simpson; and sergeant first class Joaquin canlas, Us Army, accepted by his great grandsons maj. Darren canlas (UsAf) and maj. Danny ray canlas (UsA).
in his remarks, Ambassador Jose manuel romualdez acknowledged retired senior Petty officer rey cabacar, one of the few remaining surviving filipino veterans of World War ii, and reaffirmed the embassy’s commitment to honoring the legacy of filipino veterans, ensuring that their courage and sacrifice are remembered by future generations.
I am deeply honored to join you once again, just a few weeks after we commemorated the 10th anniversary of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act—a milestone in your tireless efforts to secure recognition for the valor, sacrifice, and service of Filipinos who fought under the American flag during World War II,” he said. following the presentation of the congressional Gold medals, retired Brig. Gen. Jimmy canlas (UsAf) also shared a personal story about his grandfather, one of the veterans posthumously honored during the ceremony. he reminded the audience that the legacy of the filipino World War ii veterans must continue to be told, saying, “Don’t let our stories and memories end here. Everyone who witnessed today’s event has a responsibility to spread the word—that the brave actions of these men and women are among the reasons we enjoy freedom, democracy, and the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Philippine Defense Attache roy Derilo delivered a message
Paychecks to federal employees expected to...
cessing while ensuring accuracy after weeks of suspended or partial operations. the office of Personnel management notified employees that payroll restoration is a priority and that agencies are required to compensate workers for all pay periods that lapsed during the shutdown.
oPm reiterated that the Government employee fair treatment Act of 2019 guarantees retroactive pay for furloughed employees and for workers who reported to duty without pay because they were classified as excepted personnel. the law, passed during a previous shutdown, makes back pay automatic once funding is restored.
Approximately 1.4 million federal civilian employees were affected during the funding lapse, based on federal workforce data.
roughly half were furloughed at various points while the rest continued working in positions considered essential to national security, transportation, public safety, and core government functions.
Agencies including the transportation security Administration, customs and Border Protection, the federal Aviation Administration and the food and Drug Administration operated with reduced staffing while employees awaited pay.
it was reported that several large agencies anticipate distributing pay as early as saturday. others may take several additional
of gratitude and remembrance on behalf of the Armed forces of the Philippines. We are deeply grateful for your service and sacrifice. Your bravery is the reason our alliance endures with such strength and purpose. Your legacy is reflected not only in the medal bestowed today, but in the unity, resilience, and shared values that our Armed Forces continue to uphold,” he said. representing the District of columbia, Director Ben de Guzman of the Dc mayor’s office on Asian and Pacific islander Affairs (moAPiA) read a special Proclamation by Dc mayor muriel
Bowser, recognizing their contributions to freedom and democracy. the congressional Gold medal is awarded collectively to filipino World War ii veterans under Public Law 114-265, recognizing their outstanding wartime achievements and honorable service to the United states during World War ii the medal stands as a symbol of the veterans’ valor, integrity and selfless service to the nation. the event was attended by veterans’ families, community leaders and members of the filipino American community. (Bing Cardenas Branigin/Inquirer.net)
Dela Rosa asks SC to block ICC arrest...
order is a violation, not only of Philippine laws, but of the international framework that the Philippine government claims to be assisting.
“The Statute envisions the participation of domestic courts, not their exclusion. Even among State Parties, compliance requires a written request, a copy of the warrant, and a judicial process to validate surrender,” read dela rosa’s urgent manifestation filed on thursday.
the manifestation was filed despite still-unconfirmed, but widely reported, claims that an order had already been issued by the icc for his arrest.
in his separate “very urgent motion,” dela rosa urged the supreme court to order ombudsman Jesus crispin remulla to immediately submit a copy of
the alleged warrant he claims is saved in his mobile phone, and ask him to explain how he obtained such a copy. in his other motion, he urged the sc to order the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Department of foreign Affairs (DfA) to submit, within 72 hours, a written certification, under oath, confirming or denying that it has received any icc-related warrant or communication.
Aside from stopping the implementation of the arrest order, once confirmed to exist, he asked the sc to issue a restraining order against its enforcement, and stop the government from transmitting any icc-related communication through diplomatic or law enforcement channels pending the resolution of his case. the senator also urged the sc to restrain the government
from providing any form of logistical, financial or protective assistance to icc witnesses under its care.
Dela rosa argued that the executive branch should not fully rely on section 17 of republic Act No. 9851 or the Philippine Act on crimes Against international humanitarian Law, Genocide and other crimes Against humanity as a unilateral basis for surrendering accused filipinos.
“The reliance on Section 17 would effectively convert a statutory provision into a blank check for the Executive branch to surrender Filipino citizens to foreign bodies at will,” he said. these kinds of actions, he said, “offend the doctrine of constitutional supremacy, which mandates that all statutes must yield to the Constitution.
Ex-DPWH chief Bonoan’s US trip draws...
lowing a long tenure as head of san miguel corporation’s infrastructure arm. President ferdinand marcos Jr. later appointed Vince Dizon as acting DPWh secretary, instructing him to strengthen internal audits and cooperate fully with the ici since Bonoan’s resignation, the department has recommended several engineers and contractors for administrative and criminal proceedings before the ombudsman.
Billions in public-works projects under review Auditors and ici investigators are now examining dozens of high-value flood-mitigation projects across Luzon, Visayas, and mindanao. Preliminary findings indicate overlapping contracts, falsified completion certificates, and drainage systems certified as complete despite lacking physical structures. the ici has already transmitted its latest referrals to the ombuds-
man for evaluation. should probable cause be found, prosecutors could request a hold-departure order and pursue cases before the sandiganbayan. officials estimate that the potential value of disputed or unverified projects may reach several billion pesos once all documentation is reviewed.
What lies ahead for investigators the next phase of the inquiry will test whether accountability extends beyond project engineers to senior officials. the ombudsman is currently evaluating the ici’s expanded reports, while the DoJ, DPWh, and commission on Audit (coA) coordinate to preserve records and audit trails. ici inspection teams will continue site verification until yearend. the DoJ said Bonoan remains under iLBo monitoring during his travel abroad, and immigration authorities will record his re-entry upon return. Lawmakers and anti-corrup-
tion advocates have urged transparency in the commission’s findings, saying public confidence in infrastructure programs depends on visible results. A senate oversight committee member said the investigation must move quickly to ensure accountability and recover misused funds.
A quiet exit that keeps questions alive
Bonoan’s low-profile departure underscores a familiar challenge in Philippine governance: investigations that often move slower than departures. hosaka said the commission will continue its work and submit additional referrals to the ombudsman as evidence warrants. Whether accountability reaches the top ranks of the DPWh or ends at the contractor level will depend on how swiftly investigators convert findings into formal cases. for now, the files remain open, the investigations continue, and Bonoan stays on the government’s watchlist. n
days depending on internal payroll cycles. Workers paid on biweekly schedules are expected to receive retroactive deposits in a lump sum that covers all missed periods.
During the shutdown, employees collectively missed millions of paychecks and experienced financial strain that included delayed rent, medical bills and emergency borrowing.
Although back pay will restore lost wages, analysts note that shutdowns can produce permanent economic losses. the congressional Budget office has previously estimated that long funding lapses can remove billions of dollars in economic activity that is never recovered, even when back pay is issued.
contract workers who provide janitorial, food service, security and call center support through private firms remain in a different category. federal law does not guarantee back pay for contractors, and any compensation for lost wages depends on individual employers or agency specific arrangements.
Worker advocacy groups have urged congress to consider relief for low wage federal contract workers who have now endured multiple shutdowns without legal protections.
As operations resume, agencies have issued detailed instructions to employees.Workers are being advised to check official pay calendars, monitor direct deposits and
review pay statements to ensure that deductions, retirement contributions, leave accrual and premium pay are correctly reflected. oPm guidance states that all furlough hours covered by retroactive pay must be treated as time in pay status for the purposes of benefits, retirement service credit and within grade increases. some agencies face significant backlogs. Departments that suspended nonessential work during the shutdown are now contending with delays in permitting, research, inspections, public services and regulatory functions. Leadership teams have been told to prioritize safety, compliance and mission critical operations as staff return. the funding bill signed on Wednesday keeps the federal government open through January 2026. Lawmakers must negotiate additional appropriations to avoid another lapse. for many employees, the restart of pay offers immediate relief, but unions representing federal workers warn that repeated shutdowns undermine morale and disrupt services that millions of Americans rely on. for now, the focus among federal workers is on the return of long delayed paychecks. After six weeks of uncertainty, the government’s civilian workforce is preparing to move forward, rebuild financial stability and resume the work that was interrupted by the record long shutdown. (AJPress)
Pampublikong Pagdinig ng Lungsod ng Alameda Tungkol sa mga Iminungkahing Pagbabago sa mga CDBG Action Plan para sa FY 2019-2020 hanggang 2024-2025 & mga Iminungkahing Pagbabago sa Citizen Participation Plan
Ang Lungsod ng Alameda (Lungsod) ay nakikibahagi bilang isang Entitlement City sa Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) ng Kagawaran ng Pabahay at Pagpapaunlad ng Kalunsuran (Housing and Urban Development, HUD) ng U.S. Alinsunod sa 24 CFR 91.105(c)(2) at subpart B ng mga pederal na regulasyon tungkol sa partisipasyon ng mga mamamayan para sa mga Community
Planning and Development Program, sa Disyembre 16, 2025, tatalakayin ng Konseho ng Lungsod
ang mga iminungkahing pagbabago sa mga CDBG Action Plan para sa mga fiscal year 2019-2020 hanggang 2024-2025, na naglalaan muli ng halagang $614,392.10 mula sa mga pondo ng CDBG. Nasa sa ibaba ang mga rekomendadong programa at halaga ng pondo para sa iminungkahing pagbabago:
Pampublikong Pagpapaunlad
Mga pampublikong pagpapaunlad, kabilang ang Day Center Relocation, mga pagpapabuti para sa pagsunod sa ADA sa buong Lungsod, at iba pang mga kwalipikadong aktibidad/ proyekto.
transfer poles, at pagpapahusay ng pabahay para sa mga indibidwal na may mababa hanggang katamtamang kita.
Ang Lungsod ay gumagawa rin ng maliliit na rebisyon sa Citizen Participation Plan para matugunan ang mga kailangan ng HUD at ang mga layunin ng lungsod na sapat na tumugon sa mga pangunahing pangangailangan ng komunidad. Ang mga pagbabagong ito ay walang epekto sa 2025-2029 Five-Year Consolidated Plan o sa Taunang Action Plan para sa Taong Pananalapi 2025 o FY 2025 Annual Action Plan.
PAGKAKATAON NA MARINIG
Ang publiko ay hinihimok at iniimbitahan na lumahok sa proseso ng Planong Aksyon ng CDBG/ HOME at para magkomento tungkol sa mga plano sa pabahay at pagpapaunlad ng komunidad, nang pabigkas o nakasulat, sa sumusunod na nakatakdang Pampublikong Pagdinig: Disyembre 16, 2025 Pulong ng Konseho ng Lungsod sa 7:00 p.m.
Pampublikong pagdinig tungkol sa mga iminungkahing pagbabago sa Action Plan para sa mga fiscal year 2019-2020 hanggang 2024-2025. Para tingnan ang pampublikong pagdinig, bisitahin ang website ng Lungsod ng Alameda sa: https://www.alamedaca.gov/GOVERNMENT/Agendas-Minutes-Announcements.For Pakikontak si Andre Fairley sa (510) 747-6883 o sa pag-email sa housing@alamedaca.gov. para humingi ng mga kopya ng Action Plan na apektado ng muling paglalaan ng pondo.
Maaari ring isumite ang mga komento tungkol sa iminungkahing pagbabago sa Action Plan kay Andre Fairley sa (510) 747-6883 o sa pag-email sa housing@alamedaca.gov. Pakibigay ang mga komento bago lumampas ang 7:00 p.m. sa Disyembre 16, 2025. Didinggin ng Konseho ng Lungsod ang mga komento at tatalakayin ang pag-apruba ng pagbabago sa Action Plan sa regular na pagpupulong nito sa Martes, Disyembre 16, 2025, sa City Hall, 2263 Santa Clara Avenue. Hinihikayat ang publiko na dumalo at makibahagi.
MGA PROBISYON PARA SA MGA TAONG MAY KAPANSANAN
Kung ang isang tao na may interes na lumahok sa programang ito ay isang taong may kapansanan gaya ng nilinaw ng Seksyon 504 ng Rehabilitation Act of 1974 at nangangailangan ng kaluwagan upang makalahok o nagkaroon ng interes, ang isang kahilingan para sa kaluwagan ay maaaring gawin kay Andre Fairley sa (510) 747-6883 (Boses) o sa pamamagitan ng email sa housing@ alamedaca.gov. Ang naturang kahilingan ay dapat kabilang ang isang paglalarawan ng kaluwagang hinahangad, kasama ang isang pahayag ng kapansanan na nangangailangan ng kaluwagan. Anumang kahilingan para sa kaluwagan ay dapat suriin at ang isang sagot ay dapat ipagkaloob sa loob ng limang araw ng trabaho pagkatapos matanggap ang naturang kahilingan. Ang paunawa ng anumang kaluwagan na iginawad ay ipagkakaloob agad sa humiling.
MGA PROBISYON SA MGA RESIDENTENG HINDI NAGSASALITA NG INGLES
Ang Lungsod ng Alameda ay may networkk ng mga empleyadong nagsasalita ng 45 wika na maaaring maging tagasalin para sa mga residente na naghahanap ng impormasyon tungkol sa mga programa ng pederal na gobyerno. Kung binigyan ng paunawang maaga ng limang araw ng trabaho, maghahanda ang Lungsod para makakuha ng isang interpreter. Pakikontak si Andre Fairley sa (510) 747-6883 o sa pag-email sa housing@alamedaca.gov PATAKARANG WALANG DISKRIMINASYON
Ang Lungsod ng Alameda ay hindi nagdidiskrimina laban sa sinumang mga tao dahil sa lahi, kulay, relihiyon, bansang pinagmulan, angkan, seks, kasarian, kinikilalang kasarian, pagpapahayag ng kasarian, oryentasyong sekswal, katayuang marital, katayuang pampamilya, pinagkukunan ng kita, henetikong impormasyon, kondisyong medikal, kapansanang pisikal o kapansanan ng isipan, o anumang ibang kategoryang protektado ng batas.
DRY RUN. Personnel of the Manila Police District - Civil Disturbance Management are deep in preparations at the MPD quadrangle in Ermita, Manila on Thursday (Nov. 13, 2025). A total of 16,433 police personnel will be deployed for the simultaneous prayer rallies organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo and the United People’s Initiative in Manila and Quezon City from Nov. 16 to 18, the National Capital Region Police Office said. PNA photo by Yancy Lim
In his remarks, Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez acknowledged retired Senior Petty Officer Rey Cabacar, one of the few remaining surviving Filipino veterans of World War II, and reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to honoring the legacy of Filipino veterans, ensuring that their courage and sacrifice are remembered by future generations. Contributed photos
OPiniOn
When politics plays with lives: The lesson America nearly forgot
The 2025 United States federal shutdown lasted 43 days, the longest in history. Both parties broke what only cooperation can fix. The answer to America’s dysfunction lies within the problem itself, if leaders are willing to listen
After 43 days of the longest federal shutdown in United States history, the gates are reopening, agencies are restarting and Congress is claiming victory. for millions of Americans who went unpaid or unsupported, the victory feels hollow. the shutdown exposed not only a budget impasse but a moral one. It revealed, with painful clarity, that the answer was hidden in the problem itself.
After the longest shutdown, a fragile truce When the government shut down on october 1, 2025, it froze the country’s most basic services. the congressional Budget office estimates permanent economic losses between seven billion and fourteen billion dollars. other analyses estimate a weekly GDP hit of about fifteen billion dollars during the shutdown. Approximately 670,000 federal employees were furloughed and about 730,000 more worked without pay as vital programs such as food assistance, small business loans and veterans’ benefits were delayed or suspended.
After six weeks of stalemate, on November 12
President Donald trump signed a bipartisan fund-
the calamitous typhoons put forward two examples of visionary local leadership, one successful, the other a failure, but vindicated by lack of success. Dr. Pamela cajilig summed up the success in this manner: “What seems to be working for Iloilo is the selection of an optimal mix of methods: spillway (hard infrastructure) + coastal wetland restoration + land use: the spillway’s not crowded with factories and houses. This is more than flood control. This is integrated flood risk management.” Wilfredo Garrido summed up the failure this way: “The unprecedented flooding of Cebu is nature’s revenge against years of uncontrolled development. At the center of it all is Slater Young’s The Rise at Monterrazas, [the] concrete structures [of which] repelled water and directed it toward low-lying barangays … The former mayor, Tomas Osmeña, vetoed the harebrained project when it was just at the planning stage.” While victory has a hundred fathers, while defeat is an orphan, what accounts for the success in iloilo and the heartbreaking flood-
mother Nature is angry and has declared that it’s payback time. We have abused our forests, rivers, lakes and seas for much too long. our environment has been repeatedly raped. Now we are suffering the consequences. the shameless greed of our powerful elite caused this mindless despoliation of our natural resources. they disregarded the national interest and the needs of future generations. our government, weak and held captive by the elite, allowed massive deforestation. rivers and lakes were polluted beyond belief by domestic and industrial wastes. mountains and hills were stripped of their forest cover and some were leveled to make way for land development.
the World Bank, in a 2009 paper, indicated that the annual deforestation rate during the
ing bill to reopen the government. the house approved the measure 222 to 209. it funds government operations through January 30, 2026 and includes full year appropriations for defense, agriculture and legislative operations. the legislation did not extend the enhanced Affordable care Act subsidies that Democrats had sought. Polling shows that many Americans believe both parties share responsibility for a system that repeatedly turns livelihoods into leverage. The truth the shutdown could not hide this shutdown was more than a policy dispute. it exposed the way America now governs through confrontation rather than collaboration. it revealed that cooperation, not domination, is the foundation
ing in cebu? the building of a winning coalition composed of local and national governments, with civil society and business, seems to be the key.
rosalie Arcala hall, in “National–Local Synergies for Development: How a Local Political Machine Delivered Infrastructure Results in Iloilo City,” in the Journal of current southeast Asian Affairs, suggests that it can be said of former sen. franklin Drilon that his political machine “orchestrated a diverse but astutely networked group of local businesses by involving them in formal participatory planning processes, thereby facilitating approval of big-ticket items, and by influencing bureaucrats from national government agencies to approve the projects.” the result was “robust, institutional, and informal ties between political and economic elites that enabled consensus-building on the virtues of market-driven growth for which infrastructure is key.” contrast this with situations where entire sectors are kept out of the mix. returning to cebu, Paulo Alcazaren (of iloilo esplanade and now manila fame) pointed out, “In the last decade, there have been several NBS (nature-based solutions) proposals for Cebu rivers by landscape architects and environmental planners, but the DPWH chose to do it their way.” someone
with (former) government experience put it this way: “The DPWH serves as the agent of cynicism. ‘Di pwede ‘yung ganyan from things like bike lanes to bio-drainage to nature-based flood control. They kill innovative proposals to turn around and give money to contractors and politicians.” the result was soP, the standard operating procedure that siphoned off billions, leaving either nothing tangible or only a token, nonperforming asset to show for it. slightly over four months ago, when this whole infrastructure racket blew up, one of the most perilous things about it (for those exposed) was that every time there would be a calamity, the public would be reminded of why it had gotten so furious in the first place, with the addition of even more aggrieved people. the outrage goes beyond directly affected communities, after all: Ulysis Dylan Gruta on facebook asserts that Project Noah and its maps were bad for business—the dirty kind, because Noah’s maps made corruption harder. if anyone could check online which areas truly needed flood-control projects, then every “drainage improvement” or “river wall” pork barrel would have to make sense.
Public anger being refreshed so u PAGE 8
of public service. it showed how both parties have used the lives of ordinary people as bargaining chips in pursuit of political advantage. it confirmed what many already sensed, that the public’s patience for dysfunction is wearing thin. the shutdown demonstrated that politics has become performance. Both sides accused the other of acting in bad faith while citizens bore the cost. Yet within
iN a recent discussion we had here in Washington, Dc on the evolving dynamics of the south china sea, i found myself reflecting on how my own experiences with china have spanned approximately four decades. it’s a story that began in 1974 when, as a neophyte reporter for rPN 9, i joined the Philippine basketball team on a mission that we called “basketball diplomacy” because we had with us some of the country’s top basketball players at the time. my uncle, then-Ambassador eduardo romualdez, led our delegation, and i vividly remember meeting Vice Premier Deng Xiaoping and Premier Zhou enlai, who formally received us at the Great hall of the People. in retrospect, it was an extraordinary time because sports was able to open doors that politics could not.
Being a reporter, i tried to absorb as much as i could on that historic visit. our delegation stayed at the friendship hotel –the only major hotel at the time – which was a converted 1950s
russian complex. Beijing was then a quiet, austere capital –still recovering from the turmoil of the cultural revolution – but already showing signs of the discipline and national pride that would drive its transformation. When i returned in 1983, this time accompanying then-ilocos Norte governor ferdinand marcos Jr. and several other local government leaders that included then-olongapo mayor richard Gordon, tawi-tawi governor Nur Jaafar and other local officials, i witnessed a country that was already showing signs of transformation. the streets were busier, and there was a palpable sense of activity. the reforms initiated by Deng Xiaoping – acknowledged as the architect of china’s free enterprise policy – were beginning to reshape china, and there was optimism in the air that progress was happening. i went back to shanghai in 2005 with my dear friend max soliven and saw the changes have become much more apparent with the presence of five-star hotels and bustling shopping
centers in the city. By the time i visited again in 2011 as part of the business delegation of President Noynoy Aquino’s official visit, i could hardly recognize china. skyscrapers dotted the skyline, bullet trains sped across the countryside and shops carrying luxury brands were all visible signs of prosperity. obviously, china had become an economic powerhouse. those four visits – spanning nearly four decades – gave me a front row seat to one of the most remarkable stories of transformation in modern history. During our discussion in Washington attended by members of the National committee on U.s.-china relations with professors from various universities across the United states taking part, i underscored the deep historical ties between the Philippines and china because many filipinos, myself included, have chinese lineage. in fact, the world’s oldest chinatown is located in manila. A lot of the major companies in the u PAGE 7
1935-70 period, and then 197191, were particularly high. About 181,000 hectares/year were also lost during 1971-91. over the last eight decades, we lost about 60-70 percent of our forest cover. the bulk of the loss occurred during the logging boom years (1960s-80s) and through land conversion. Loggers with strong political clout made a lot of money with no regard to long term impact on the country’s future.
Worse, we don’t even have a National Land Use Law to guide what could be done. instead, property developers and owners do whatever they want. congress had been trying to pass such a law since the 1990s but the lobby against it was too strong.
What we have is a colossal national mess, a free-for-all system that has reduced our country to a massive garbage dump. mother Nature has had enough. We must be taught our lesson, exactly what the destructive typhoons are teaching us. Briefly, this is our problem: heavy rainfall that more fre-
quently occurs in this era of climate change is causing greater runoff because vegetation or forests that normally absorb it are gone. Water reaches rivers faster.
the capacity of rivers and their tributaries to drain rainwater have been reduced due to sedimentation, blocked waterways and structures built in floodplains.
Allowing residential subdivisions and the building of commercial buildings or infrastructure in flood-prone zones, steep slopes, or on former natural floodplains, increases exposure to killer floods and landslides.
says one policy source: “Private property rights are extremely strong… Current safety zones only need to measure three meters in cities and 20 meters in rural areas. However, these are often completely insufficient.” Whatever little land use planning we have is fragmented and poorly enforced. Allowing deforestation, quarrying and construction upstream usually fails to consider downstream flood risk impact. An unusually heavy u PAGE 8
DoN’t look now, but amid his unprecedented anti-corruption crackdown, ferdinand marcos Jr. is reportedly embarking on another ambitious undertaking: the abolition, or at least the regulation of political dynasty-building. the initiative has raised eyebrows, since it is emanating from the house of representatives – a chamber overflowing with dynasts including its current speaker – and backed by a President who himself is part of political dynasties.
But if people can suspend skepticism in President marcos’ “mahiya naman kayo” anti-corruption campaign, they can also give him the benefit of the doubt, if it’s true that he is supporting the house initiative to finally pass an anti-dynasty law, as mandated by the 1987 constitution. this week, as speaker Bojie Dy publicly urged his fellow congressmen to support the anti-dynasty measure filed by Akbayan
in the house, a monkey wrench was immediately tossed in: Deputy speaker ronaldo Puno and the National Unity Party (NUP) proposed charter change or chacha through a constitutional convention.
Dy belongs to the Partido federal ng Pilipinas, the political party chaired by BBm. Does the NUP move also have BBm’s blessing? cha-cha initiatives in previous years were always doomed by two proposals: term extensions or the lifting of term limits, and a ban or at least regulation of dynasties. Will the resurrected cha-cha effort sabotage the anti-dynasty proposal?
* * * flood control projects became substandard and even “ghosts” partly because the system of checks and balances in government also became non-existent in many areas. that system breakdown is facilitated when members of a single clan occupy nearly every key government position in a particular area, from the barangay all the way to congress. the city or municipal coun-
cil, for example, has oversight functions over official acts of the mayor. the vice mayor chairs the council. What happens when the mayor and vice mayor (plus a smattering of councilors) are close relatives? Worse, the mayor and vice mayor simply switch seats (often with the congressional representative) when their three-term limits are over. holding public office based chiefly on the right surname rather than qualifications for the job has wreaked havoc on the delivery of government services. With public anger not assuaged by ongoing investigations on the flood control anomalies, and the prospect of cases filed in court crawling along at only a slightly faster pace, tossing the possibility of curbing dynasties (at last!) might help quell unrest – and save slumping approval ratings. All you nasty doubters must not rule out the possibility that Bongbong marcos is genuinely a reformist, with his heart in the right place. there would be less skepticism if he had been born into another u PAGE 8
The long view
Manuel L. Quezon III
babe’s eye view
Babe Romualdez
Sta. Cruz Church to be named minor basilica
by eveLyn MacaIran Philstar.com
mANiLA — the sta. cruz parish church in manila will be declared as a minor basilica on Nov. 21, with cardinal Jose Advincula as mass presider and Balanga, Bataan Bishop rufino sescon as homilist.
in a social media post, the parish announced that the solemn liturgical rite of the declaration of sta. cruz parish church as the Basilica minor de Nuestra señora del Pilar would take place at 2 p.m. the 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. masses for the day are canceled to give way for a procession. in march, the late Pope francis approved the request for the parish to be elevated to a minor basilica, under the patronage of Nuestra señora del Pilar. A minor basilica symbolizes the parish’s close relationship with the Vatican and the pope. the Jesuits built the parish church on June 20, 1619, which was originally made of stone and wood. they enshrined an image of our Lady of the Pillar
that came from spain in 1643, and ministered to predominantly chinese residents in the area. the original structure of the church was twice damaged by earthquakes, and then destroyed in the Battle of manila during World War ii the present building was completed in 1957.
in 1984, then manila archbishop Jaime cardinal sin restored the official name of the church to santa cruz Parish. he kept our Lady of the Pillar as its titular patroness and named as secondary patron st. Peter Julian eymard, founder of the sacramentinos. n
Barzaga summoned over sedition, rebellion
by chrIsTIne BoTon Philstar.com
mANiLA — the Quezon city Prosecutor’s office has summoned for preliminary investigation cavite 4th District rep. francisco Barzaga over charges of inciting to sedition and inciting to rebellion filed by the police criminal investigation and Detection Group (ciDG).
Barzaga posted on social media on Wednesday a copy of the subpoena along with the caption: “Bongbong Marcos, how many people have your father killed or imprisoned before he was removed from power? This will not stop us, this will only make the revolution stronger!” in a subsequent post that evening, the lawmaker said he was willing to “die for a noble cause” and expressed hope of contributing to what he described as the President’s “downfall.” the social media post comes amid a string of controversies involving Barzaga, who recently broke away from the majority in the house of representatives.
the subpoena, dated Nov. 12, requires Barzaga to personally appear before the prosecutor on Nov. 18 and 25 at 3 p.m. for the preliminary investigation of the complaints for alleged violations of Articles 142 and 138 of the revised Penal code, in relation to section 6 of republic Act 10175 or the cybercrime Prevention Act.
ciDG chief maj. Gen. robert morico ii confirmed the filing of the complaints against Barzaga before the Quezon city Prosecutor’s office in connection with the violent incidents that occurred in mendiola and c m recto in manila on sept. 21. “there was a crime committed, it was violent and police officers were injured. Government properties paid for by taxpayers were also damaged. So we have to file the cases. This is nothing personal,” morico said. morico withheld other information about the cases, saying it would be improper to issue any remark while the complaint is under preliminary investigation.
Barzaga earlier accused the
chamber’s leadership of linking him to an alleged signature campaign to unseat martin romualdez as house speaker. the Armed forces of the Philippines previously removed Barzaga from its list of reservists following what it described as “insinuations of sedition” made through his social media statements.
Barzaga is also facing an ethics complaint in the house for his repeated attacks on senior government officials. in october, Barzaga called on supporters to gather outside forbes Park in makati city to storm houses allegedly owned by romualdez and former lawmaker Zaldy co. Barzaga, who supported marcos during the 2022 presidential campaign, has recently cast himself as an anti-corruption advocate critical of the administration. his critics, however, view his actions as attention seeking and a diversion from genuine anti-corruption initiatives.
(With reports from Mark Ernest Villeza, Elizabeth Marcelo)
Bridging seas and decades: A personal...
Philippines are owned by filipino-chinese businessmen, and while they are keen on maintaining strong economic relations with china, concerns over tensions in the south china sea persist due to their continued impact on trade and investment. responding to questions by participants on whether a multilateral or bilateral approach would best address the issue, i affirmed that multilateralism remains the path forward. the issue of the south china sea is a shared concern among many nations and thus, a multilateral framework grounded in international law is the most equitable and sustainable mechanism for managing disputes.
i shared that the Philippines’ approach to the south china sea is rooted in people – our fishermen – who brave daily challenges to provide for their families. it is their livelihoods that give meaning to our pursuit of peace, stability and adherence to international law. the 2016 Arbitral Award and the United Nations convention on the Law of the sea (UNcLos) are not just legal instruments; they are moral compasses that
protect small nations and ensure fairness in our shared seas.
We also recognize the importance of keeping communication lines open. the Bilateral consultation mechanism (Bcm) with china allows us to manage crises before they escalate. While dialogue may not always resolve every issue, it can help prevent misunderstandings that could lead to confrontation. in a region where tensions often rise without warning, the ability to communicate is our strongest safeguard. i also emphasized that prosperity and peace are inseparable. A strong economy builds a strong defense, and stability invites investment. that is why we continue to nurture partnerships not only with the United states – our treaty ally – but also with our neighbors, including china. We are firm in defending what is ours, but we are also pragmatic enough to find areas where cooperation can flourish. Looking back, from that first trip in 1974 to today’s strategic dialogues, i realize how far both our nations – and the entire region – have come. china’s rise has transformed Asia, and the Philippines, too, has found its
voice as a responsible, confident member of the international community. the challenge now is to channel our shared prosperity toward building trust and mutual respect.
Diplomatic relations with china started with President ferdinand marcos sr. President marcos Jr. is doing what he can to carry that through, having reiterated his commitment to meaningful dialogue and a partnership that has mutual respect for sovereign equality and adherence to international law. in the end, i remain hopeful that perhaps one day we can look at the south china sea not as a battleground of rival claims, but as a shared space for understanding, cooperation and growth. After all, the essence of diplomacy is not to erase differences, but to manage them in ways that uphold peace and human dignity. (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.
* * * Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com
24 officials absent during ‘Uwan’ to face DILG probe
by Ian LaquI Philstar.com
mANiLA — twenty-four local officials are being investigated for taking foreign trips during the onslaught of super typhoon "Uwan" (international name: hung fong). interior secretary Jonvic remulla said the officials, most of whom are mayors, will be investigated for leaving the country amid the super typhoon despite “clear-cut guidelines.” “Under investigation ngayon ang 24 na umalis na local chief executives. Despite the directive, umalis sila November 9 to 15,” remulla said in a DZBB interview.
(Twenty-four local chief executives are currently under investigation. They departed between November 9 and 15,
despite the directive.) That's what they need to explain. It's clear-cut guidelines. If they asked the local DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government), they probably didn't ask, they will tell them the requirements,” he added.
(That's what they need to explain. The guidelines are clearcut. If they had asked the local DILG [Department of the Interior and Local Government] — which they probably didn't — they would have been told the requirements.)
When asked about the local officials who had already traveled abroad before the DiLG’s directive to cancel foreign trips, remulla emphasized that there are clear guidelines governing such situations.
however, he emphasized that the officials’ “moral duty” was to be cognizant of the approaching
cyclone. Lahat naman tayo nanonood ng balita, lahat tayo nagbabasa ng dyaryo, lahat tayo nakikita sa internet. Alam naman natin na may parating, 'di ba?” remulla said.
(We all watch the news, we all read the papers, and we all see what’s on the internet. We all know something’s coming, right?) on November 8, the DiLG announced that it had directed all elective and appointive local officials to cancel or postpone their foreign trips from November 9 to 15 as the country prepared for the effects of Uwan. however, remulla said that the trips of the two governors from the cagayan Valley are not covered by the investigation, as they asked permission and left before the agency issued the directive. n
When politics plays with lives...
the mechanism for repair. that mechanism is accountability, cooperation and a renewed public demand for governance that serves rather than harms. this truth extends beyond Washington. in texas, florida and ohio, mid cycle redistricting produced maps designed to preserve partisan advantage. in california, voters approved Proposition 50 in 2025, shifting future congressional map drawing from the independent commission back to the legislature for 2026 to 2030. each side justified its maneuvers in the name of fairness. Both demonstrated the same point. When politics bends rules to preserve power, democracy bends closer to breaking.
When institutions fail, they do not simply collapse. they reveal what must be corrected. every crisis contains the information needed to fix the system if leaders are willing to recognize it.
Rebuilding trust from the ruins 1. end shutdown politics.
Adopt automatic continuing resolutions that keep agencies funded until budgets pass. No family should suffer because government cannot agree.
2. make redistricting truly independent. every state should adopt cit-
izen commissions guided by transparency, balanced representation and judicial oversight.
3. incentivize cooperation.
congress must reward legislation that solves problems instead of rewarding spectacle. committee leadership and public funding should reflect results rather than rhetoric.
4. restore civic literacy. schools, media and civic organizations must rebuild respect for facts, dialogue and dissent. Democracy depends not on unanimity but on understanding.
5. Demand accountability, not allegiance.
Voters must judge leaders by outcomes rather than outrage. true courage means telling one’s own side when it is wrong.
The deeper lesson Because in the end, the truth endures. the answer has been in the problem all along. Gridlock, bitterness and loss of trust are not only signs of a broken system. they are signals that reveal what must change. When politics stops serving people, the pain that follows points to the path of renewal. this shutdown forced both parties to confront the cost of their excesses, and in that recognition lies the first step toward repair. the answer is not found in another speech or slogan. it is
found in the willingness to learn from what this failure exposed. Leadership without empathy is hollow. Partisanship without principle corrodes democracy. the health of a nation depends less on who wins and more on who takes responsibility when everyone loses. if America chooses to heed that lesson, this shutdown will not only be remembered as the longest in history. it will be remembered as the moment the country rediscovered its need for conscience over conquest. the truth has always been there, waiting for courage to face it.
A call for civic maturity this is not a battle between left and right. it is a battle between governance and spectacle. America’s strength has never come from one party’s triumph. it has come from the ability of both parties to serve the nation together. if Democrats and republicans continue treating power as a prize instead of a responsibility, the losses will not be theirs alone. they will belong to the people they were elected to protect. the challenge before the nation is moral as much as political. Public service is sacred, compromise is strength and no life should ever again be treated as leverage. (AJPress)
family. But BBm owes his current station in life to that family, and the father he adores despite the record of gross human rights abuses and kleptocracy. is BBm ready to break the political dominance of the marcoses in ilocos Norte, and the romualdezes in Leyte, his mommie dearest imeldific’s home province? BBm is believed to be grooming his son, ilocos Norte rep. sandro marcos, as a potential third president marcos.
* * *
According to BBm’s foes, his formidable 2022 tandem with the Dutertes broke apart when he backed his favorite cousin martin romualdez’s ambition to succeed him in 2028, instead of honoring a tacit understanding with Vice President sara Duterte that she would get his endorsement, while her ally Pampanga rep. Gloria macapagal-Arroyo would be named house speaker. that flap over GmA’s aborted return to the speaker’s post was initially written off as a case of blood being thicker than water. But the resentment that it sparked among the Duterte diehard supporters degenerated into
irreconcilable differences with the impeachment of the VP, the arrest of her father and the house detention of her aide Zuleika Lopez. these are two major dynasties clashing. there are people praying for a pox on both their houses. the problem for such disgruntled people is the lack, at this point, of a winnable alternative – someone with no dynastic, human rights or corruption baggage, who is deemed to be capable, attuned to global realities while promoting domestic interests. in our country, the person will also need charm and mass appeal without being populist. And since we’re dreaming about it, why not – the person ideally can be a unifying force. While dreaming of such an alternative, we must deal with the nightmare of ghost infrastructure projects, enabled by crooked bureaucrats and political dynasts. We’re still waiting for drastic structural changes that will ensure that we will never again see the looting that has been going on for years in the national budget process. this heinous crime finally blew up in the faces of the
perpetrators after the thievery reached shameless proportions in the 2025 outlay. Political power in this country is incestuously intertwined with family fortunes. As the flood control scandal has shown, public funds and government programs are brazenly used for personal purposes. Laws and rules are bent by those in power to benefit their personal interests and family businesses. tax-funded programs are co-opted as personal projects and money stolen from public coffers is used by politicians for patronage, to present themselves as generous and helpful folks who deserve to be in government forever, along with their entire clan. can congressmen and other politicians say goodbye to all that? if BBm can get his allies to go along with this landmark move, it would seal his credentials as a reformist. (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.
Sta. Cruz Parish Church in Manila
PNA Photo PAGE 6
De La Salle University in Trillion Peso March Against Corruption
La Salle Brother Vincent Fernandez encouraged me to join the La Sallian contingent heading to EDSA for the Trillion Peso March against corruption.
Inside La Salle Green Hills, I joined a group of students and professors from De La Salle University–Manila. Also present were representatives from De La Salle Philippines, De La Salle Antipolo, De La Salle Zobel, De La Salle Lipa, De La Salle Dasmariñas, and De La Salle Araneta, the last two being schools where I previously taught.
Later, I attended a mass at LSGH’s Razon Center, where I saw PHINMA Chairman and CEO Ramon R. del Rosario Jr., De La Salle Philippines President Edgar O. Chua, Congressman Chel Diokno and La Salle Brother Gus Boquer, former president of De La Salle University–Dasmariñas where I taught English and journalism.
After the mass, we joined the La Salle Brothers and proceeded to EDSA to march with thousands of participants.
Another Trillion Peso March against corruption is scheduled for November 30, 2025.
Thanks to Asia TV Digital British Network
I am grateful to Asia TV Digital British Network for featuring me in its November 4, 2025 cover story, which carried the article “A Humble Pen, A Lasting Legacy: The Story of Rogelio Constantino Medina.”
Here are excerpts from the piece:
“In a world often captivated by fleeting fame, Rogelio Constantino Medina stands as a quiet force, a man whose words have shaped minds, inspired generations, and upheld the timeless values of truth and learning.
A highly awarded Filipino journalist, columnist, editor, publicist and academic researcher, Medina has built a career that bridges both media and education, two pillars that support the nation’s collective conscience. His works, published in respected outlets such as the Asian Journal
HealTH @HearT
Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS
eXcePt for infectious, congenital diseases, and rarer maladies, the most common major illnesses today are caused by four main risk factors, for which i have coined the acronym: tABA, the filipino word for fat, for easy remembrance. however, in this context, i am not relating it to weight or Bmi (Body mass index).
t is for tobacco, A for Alcohol, B for Bad diet, and the second A, for Activity-deficit or Absence of exercise. this acronym itself, tABA, when used to mean fat or overweight, is also a significant factor, since obesity impacts our health negatively, catapulting our risk for major ailments, like hypertension (high Blood Pressure), arthritis, type 2 diabetes, heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and cancer. even the english word, fAt could be an applicable acronym: f for food (quality and quantity), A for Alcohol abuse, t for tobacco use or exposure, and we could add “e” for exercise deficit, and make it fAte this also spells the prognosis (fate) of those individuals with an unhealthy lifestyle, which most often means higher morbidity and mortality (more illnesses and shorter life expectancy).
Genes vs. lifestyle
While we know that our genes are also a risk factor, studies have shown that a healthy lifestyle could outplay genetic predisposition, enabling siblings of parents, who are both diabetic and hypertensive, who smoke, drink excessively, eat an unhealthy diet, and do not exercise, to escape diabetes and hypertension simply by living a healthy lifestyle, starting from their teen years.
it is clear that children are not doomed to their elders’ fate, provided they take the healthier path. But if they are a copycat of their parents' unhealthy behavior and bad habits, obviously, they will fall victim to major illnesses as well. to paraphrase einstein, we cannot do the exact same things or actions repeatedly and expect a different result.
Killer carbohydrates When it comes to diet, carbs (rice, bread, sugary desserts, soft drinks, which i call “liquid candy,” and other sweets) are food items we must minimize to maintain our weight and good health. rice con-
and Daily Tribune, carry not only information but also wisdom, reflection and purpose.
The Journey of a Journalist
Across decades of meaningful work in journalism, Medina’s career is a proof of persistence and passion. He made history as the first Filipino journalist to interview Asia’s first astronaut, Dr. Mamoru Mohri of Japan, for the Far Eastern Economic Review in Hong Kong, a milestone that highlighted Filipino excellence in global journalism.
Over the years, he has written about almost every aspect of the human experience, including news, business, travel, lifestyle, science, sports and health. His byline has appeared in respected publications like The Japan Times, Gulf News and the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Behind each story lies his commitment to truthful reporting and a deep respect for his readers.”
To Asia TV Digital British Network, my heartfelt thanks.
TERESA Goes to Australia
Established in 2013, the Seven Colors Australian Film Festival (Nov. 14–16, 2025) promotes cultural diversity through creative and performing arts and filmmaking. It aims to strengthen community harmony and intercultural understanding. TERESA has been selected for
screening on Day 3 of the 2025 SCAFF at Glen Eira Town Hall, 420 Glen Eira Road, Caulfield, Victoria, Australia.
This short film is presented by the global non-profit organizations KidsRights, State of Youth and WereldWijd voor Kinderen.
TERESA stars Elia Ilano, Bodjie Pascua, Ataska, Symon de Leña, Malou Canzana, Richard Ubalde, Vinz Aceremo, Romulo Gonzaga Jr., Catherine Daymoto and Lyka Pepito. It is written and directed by Paulo Xavier.
A Visit to MCC VPAA Arcilla
I recently paid a courtesy visit to the office of Dr. Marilyn Arcilla, Vice President for Academic Affairs of Mabalacat City College.
She is the co-author of a study titled “The Role of Community College: Navigating the Issues and Interventions of Mabalacat City College Amidst COVID Pandemic,” published in the Advanced Journal for STEM Education. Her research interests include development studies, biology, health and peace education.
In community engagement, she has emphasized practical learning and service initiatives, such as a river restoration program and homecare management training, in partnership with organizations like the Rotary Club.
PHILSME Business Expo Press Conference
PHILSME CEO Trixie Esguerra, together with sponsors Renz Patrick Diaz of Toyota Motors Philippines, Martin Kristopher Limengco II of GCash and John Paul Espinas, chairman and co-founder of Taho Story, addressed questions from the media during the 17th Philippine SME Business Expo and Conference launch held at Spaces, Century Diamond Tower in Makati City.
The discussion highlighted their companies’ advocacies and emphasized the importance of supporting SMEs and contributing to PHILSME’s mission to empower and expand local enterprises.
The 17th Philippine SME Business Expo and Conference will take place on November 28 and 29 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
Thanks to Maria Liza Lorenzo
Many thanks to Maria Liza F. Lorenzo for inviting me to the 3rd Dangal ng Lahing Filipino Awards 2025, which will be held on November 23 at Lancaster Hotel in Mandaluyong City.
The last time I saw her was during the 2024 FAMAS Awards. ***
The
Payback time
downpour results in massive losses. the compounding effect: multiple small degradations (forest loss, paving, blocked drains) together greatly amplify risk, turning what might have been a “manageable” flood into a deadly one. conversion of forests/brushland to agriculture, cropland or built surfaces increases flood exposure. slash-and-burn (kaingin) practices by landless farmers have also been a problem. it is claimed that in cebu, only around one percent of its land area remains forested.
Urbanization also poses problems: when large surfaces are paved (roads, buildings, subdivisions), rainwater cannot be absorbed by the ground and so becomes run-off very rapidly.
Urbanization also leads to obstruction of natural drainage, alteration of waterways, and more intense peak flows. this is why metro manila gets easily flooded. many waterways (rivers, esteros, canals) have been narrowed, obstructed by illegal structures or filled in, limiting their capacity to carry floodwaters. Backfilling disrupts water flow, contributing to flooding. improper disposal of solid waste (plastic and other debris) blocks drainage. this is why san miguel’s river clean-up activities are doing more good than expensive flood control projects of DPWh, many of which are even ghost projects. marikina river’s clean-up involved politically difficult decisions: moving the squatters and recovering the lost original width of the river. they also established proper easement along the river banks by moving squatters and demolishing illegal structures.
A UP policy brief mentions: “Allowing human settlements on the fringes has obliterated local drainage channels.
A key problem is that land use plans are often localized, disjointed or not integrated with flood risk or river basin management. coordinating land use planning at the regional level and the integration of flood mitigation programs for the 18 major river basins nationwide is necessary to address flooding problems. science and technology secretary renato solidum, Jr. said during a congressional budget briefing that the government should tie the various land use programs of each local government unit into a consolidated regional plan as part of efforts to address chronic nationwide flooding. there are hazard maps to guide government decision makers in dealing with development in dangerous areas. But these important inputs are not appreciated by politicians. Duterte refused to provide a budget for NoAh, putting its treasure trove of data and maps at risk. it was saved by the University of the Philippines, making it its resilience institute. massive losses in lives and property could have been avoided if officials used the hazard maps painstakingly prepared by geologists and other technical personnel.
But there are positive stories like iloilo’s flood control project. the Jaro floodway, completed in 2011 through the partnership of JicA, DPWh, NhA and the iloilo city Government, stands as living proof that politics and good infrastructure can co-exist. What made the iloilo floodway infrastructure a success according to Dr. herman Lagon is also a willingness to learn from the river rather than control it. “engineers shaped bends, planted mangroves and let gravity do what pumps could not. it was engineering that respected ecology.” the late DeNr secretary Gina Lopez summed up our problem well: “The time will come when we will be held accountable for destroying our natural resources. The time will come when we will feel the wrath of nature’s revenge because of our neglect and disrespect for the mountains and the trees.”
so today, mother Nature is saying, it’s payback time! suffer the consequences of the decades of abuse.
(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.
* * *
Boo Chanco’s email address is bchanco@gmail.com. Follow him on X @boochanco
Risks for major ills The Blessing in the release
tributes to high triglyceride levels, obesity, and increased risk for diabetes, heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer, and overall morbidity and mortality rates. repeat: soft drinks as a whole, regular or diet, cola or uncola, caffeinated or not, are all toxic to our body, especially to children. they extremely increase the risk for metabolic illnesses.
sixty percent of the world’s diabetic population is Asian. Asians have a higher risk of t2 diabetes compared to those with european ancestry. more than 7 million filipinos have t2 diabetes. our staple food, rice, appears to be a major culprit, not to mention the lack of exercise.
the filipinos (even those with normal weight) have a disproportionately high incidence of t2 Diabetes, with 7.1 percent of its population afflicted with t2 diabetes. saudi Arabia has the highest, 20.2 percent, followed by Kuwait, 17 percent; Lebanon, 14.5 percent; singapore, 12.3 percent; china, 12 percent; the United Arab emirates, 10 percent; and the UsA, 9.4 percent. the lowest, the maldives, at 3.8 percent.
Globally, an estimated 3.4 million deaths were attributed to diabetes and its complications in 2024, one death every 9 seconds. in the UsA alone, about 30.3 million people have t2 diabetes (23.1 million diagnosed and an estimated 7.2 million (23.8 percent) undiagnosed. About 84.1 million (33.9 percent) have prediabetes, or the so-called borderline diabetes. more than 6.1 million filipinos are diabetics, and about 8 million are undiagnosed. High BP – a “time bomb” Asians, particularly filipinos, consume an overdose of salt each day. We tend to grab the salt shaker or add salty condiments, even before we taste the food before us. As a result, about 30 million filipinos (1 in 3) have high blood pressure, and 20 percent are pre-hypertensive. the Department of health says about 6 million people are undiagnosed, unaware they have high blood pressure, and are “walking time bombs.” Worldwide, high blood pressure kills 7.5 million each year, and 1.5 billion suffer from its complications, like coronary heart disease, heart failure, and stroke. in the UsA, 75 million of adults (one in three, or 33 percent) have hypertension, killing about 1,200 a day. this disease costs the nation 48.6 billion dollars annually. in the Philippines, about 200,000 die each
year from complications of hypertension. in the United states, one person is diagnosed with a stroke every 40 seconds. this dreaded and debilitating illness is so common that it victimizes more than 2,000 individuals each day and kills about 133,000 each year. Luckily, about 80 percent of strokes are preventable.
Less salt is best salt consumption significantly affects individuals with hypertension. the current recommendation is no more than 2300 mg (one teaspoon) of salt (sodium chloride) a day. the average intake of 3400 mg is way above what is healthy. the American heart Association is even suggesting 1500 mg a day (3/4 of a teaspoon) a day. the total should include all uses for cooking, in condiments, and what is in processed or canned goods, which are loaded with salt preservatives. reducing our salt intake could reduce the number of hypertensives by 11 million in the UsA alone. it would, indeed, be best to get rid of salt shakers. in the United states, one person is diagnosed with a stroke every 40 seconds. this dreaded and debilitating illness is so common that it victimizes more than 2,000 individuals each day and kills about 133,000 each year. Not to mention kidney failure, heart attack, and cancer.
Discipline and sacrifices Good health, freedom from illnesses, and longevity are not free. to achieve them, we must be pre-emptive and proactive early, and work for them by arming ourselves with a proven scientific strategy, discipline, compliance, determination, and a lot of personal sacrifices. here are some tips to greatly reduce the risk of having hypertension, diabetes, stroke, heart attack, Alzheimer’s, and cancer, basically by living a healthy lifestyle or making necessary lifestyle changes, following the acronym tABA or fAte as suggested above: food - low-carb, fish, vegetables, nuts, fruits, minimal or no red meat
Alcohol - moderation, better yet, abstinence, since no amount is safe
tobacco - total abstinence and avoid second-hand smoke exercise – tai chi, brisk walking, tai-bo, swimming, biking, etc., 30 minutes daily. When it comes to health, our fate is significantly in our hands. the choice is ours: fight or surren-
YoU probably thought this would be an article on being grateful — after all, it’s thanksgiving, and that’s what everyone writes about this time of year. But surprise! i want to discuss something that naturally flows from gratitude — the power of giving. Because while gratitude fills your heart, giving multiplies it. We live in a world that measures success by how much we’ve collected — the homes, the handbags, the titles, the art, the cars. But in God’s Kingdom, it’s not about how much you accumulate; it’s about how much you release. the world says hold tight, but God says open your hands.
in Luke 17:33, Jesus tells us, Whoever tries to keep their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life will preserve it.” that’s Kingdom math — the more you let go, the more you gain. it’s not just about money. We clutch our dreams, our plans, our opportunities, and even our sense
of control as if the tighter we hold, the safer we’ll be. But God can’t multiply what we refuse to release. he can’t bless what we’ve buried. matthew 25 paints this so clearly. the servants who invested what they were given saw increase. the one who buried his talent in fear lost it all. fear convinces us to hold on, but faith teaches us to let go. You see, we’re not owners — we’re stewards. everything we have — our time, our talents, our finances, our influence — is on loan from God. And stewardship always leads to multiplication.
so what if, instead of trying to control every outcome, we became conduits of miracles? What if we stopped hoarding our blessings and started sharing them freely — trusting that what flows through us will never run out?
Proverbs 11:24 says it best: “The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller.” When we give, we don’t just expand our finances — we expand our joy, our peace, and our faith. the truth is, generosity isn’t about losing; it’s about releasing. it’s the art of saying, “God, I trust
You more than I trust my grip.” And in that release, something supernatural happens — God redeems what we surrender. What you release, he restores. so this thanksgiving, i challenge you: don’t just be grateful — be generous. Give your time. Give your kindness. Give a helping hand, a word of encouragement, or a meal to someone who needs it. Live open-handedly, not tightfisted. Because when you release what you’ve been holding on to, you make room for God to move. And when he moves, everything expands. there is always a blessing in the release — and remember, the world of the generous truly gets larger and larger. * * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management,
Timing is everything
PAGE 6 often can’t be matched by official actions to do something about it. reporting in the Asia sentinel, tita c. Valderama details the cases to come: the independent commission for infrastructure wants two senators, Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy estrada, charged with plunder and bribery; the National Bureau of investigation has recommended corruption charges against sen. francis “chiz” escudero and former house speaker martin romualdez; other representatives, and bureaucrats are also facing proceedings to charge them. Valderama writes, the ombudsman is set to file the first set of charges (but not for plunder), on Nov. 25.
* * * 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.
* * * Email: mlquezon3@gmail.com; Twitter: @mlq3
Department of Public Works and highways secretary Vince Dizon was quoted as saying that of the 60 expected to be charged, “many will spend Christmas behind bars.” former sen. Antonio trillanes iV has filed plunder charges against sen. christopher “Bong” Go, in what his supporters say is an open-and-shut case because of Go’s family and contracts in Davao. the possibility of the arrest and extradition of sen. ronald “Bato” dela rosa means the political calculus for everything from ordinary legislation to impeachment is now subject to significant change (the votes needed to convict won’t change; the votes needed to acquit will become much more difficult to achieve). imagine the nervousness surrounding the possibility of trillanes filing even more plunder charges: such a case, after all, permits the opening of bank accounts for inspection. All these suggest the timing of the iglesia ni cristo’s forthcoming rally (to preempt the ombudsman), which is becoming inseparable from allegations of regime change. (Inquirer.net)
Elia Ilano, lead star of TERESA. 17th Philippine SME Business Expo and Conference on Nov. 28-29, 2025.
Journalist Rogelio Constantino Medina on the November 4, 2025 cover of Times of Asia U.K.
Senior Lecturer I Rogelio Constantino Medina with Mabalacat City College’s Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Marilyn Arcilla.
Rogelio Constantino Medina with former fellow faculty member Angie Quadra Balibay of De La Salle University-Dasmarinas during the 17th Philippine SME Business Expo and Conference media launch.
PHINMA Corporation Chairman and CEO Ramon R. del Rosario Jr. with Asian Journal columnist Rogelio Constantino Medina.
Maria Liza F. Lorenzo with 3rd Philippines Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers recipient Rogelio Constantino Medina.
Rogelio Constantino Medina with the students and professors of De La Salle University Manila.
De La Salle Brother Gus Boquer with Rogelio Constantino Medina.
asian
Katseye celebrates Grammy breakthrough as ‘Gabriela’ lands first nominations
Global girl group KATSEYE, featuring Filipina American leader Sophia Laforteza, celebrates its first Grammy nominations for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/ Group Performance for “Gabriela,” a Latin-inspired pop anthem the group and critics describe as a “surreal” milestone and metaphor for empowerment.
by AJPress
their single “Gabriela.” for a group that only
debuted in June 2024, the milestone marks a breakthrough moment for internationally formed pop acts built on diversity, ambition and artistry. in posts and media reactions following the announcement, the six-member ensemble called the achievement “surreal” and reflected on their rapid rise from
trainees to award contenders. members expressed disbelief and gratitude for being mentioned alongside established artists in the nominations.
KAtseYe emerged from the global talent project the Debut: Dream Academy, developed by hYBe and Geffen records. the group includes members from several continents, creating a multicultural pop collective that bridges K-pop precision with Western pop energy.
The story behind ‘Gabriela’ released on June 20, 2025, “Gabriela” became the group’s defining single and earned them one of their Grammy nominations. Blending Latin-inspired pop and r&B with a dramatic, cinematic tone, the song tells the story of a woman confronting the fear of losing a loved one to another named Gabriela, a figure who represents temptation and rivalry. critics and the group describe “Gabriela” as a metaphor for insecurity, desire and the struggle to protect something valuable. its storytelling echoes the emotional intensity of classic songs like Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” reimagined through a global, Gen Z lens. featuring multilingual lyrics, including a spanish bridge sung by member Daniela, the track showcases KAtseYe’s cross-cul-
Jessica Sanchez set to return to PH for 2026 New Year’s Eve show
She will headline Newport World Resorts’ countdown party
by Gavin Martinez Inquirer.net
fiLiPiNo American vocal powerhouse Jessica sanchez is coming home.
the America’s Got talent season 20 winner is set to make her long-awaited return to the Philippines to ring in the New Year with her fans. Newport World resorts announced that sanchez will headline its 2026 countdown Party at the manila marriott Grand Ballroom on Dec. 31. the event marks her first homecoming performance since her historic victory on the talent show.
“JESSICA SANCHEZ IS COMING HOME! Witness the vocal powerhouse’s first homecoming performance after her historic America’s Got Talent win,” the resort wrote on instagram. “Catch her at the grandest New Year’s countdown, live at the Manila Marriott Grand Ballroom, Newport World Resorts this December 31, 2025.
sanchez’s return to the Philippine stage comes after a whirlwind year of milestones. the 30-yearold singer recently became a mother, welcoming her first child, eliana mae Gallardo, on oct. 13, with her husband, rickie Gallardo. sharing her joy on instagram, the singer wrote, “From one dream season to the next. This time, the most precious one yet. We are grateful beyond words for our baby girl, for the gift of motherhood, and for the love that grows deeper every day.”
sanchez made history earlier this year when she became the first filipino American to win Ameri-
tural identity. the music video, styled like a modern telenovela, heightens the song’s theme with theatrical glamour and bold visuals. Label materials and interviews highlight the video’s “telenovela” style and empowering tone, underscoring the group’s intent to merge drama with confidence.
Sophia Laforteza and Filipino pride
Among the members, sophia Laforteza stands out as the group’s leader and lead vocalist, and as a proud filipina American artist representing the Philippines to a global audience.
Born to filipino parents and raised with a deep appreciation for music, sophia began performing at a young age before joining Dream Academy in 2023. her journey from manila’s music circles to Los Angeles recording studios reflects a growing global recognition of filipino talent. sophia told Grammy.com and other media outlets that she feels honored to represent her heritage abroad and hopes young girls will see that such dreams are possible. her participation has inspired pride among communities who celebrate her as a symbol of representation in international pop. her visibility as part of a Grammy-nominated group reflects a continuing trend of filipino
artists gaining international acclaim, from h e r and olivia rodrigo to K-pop’s expanding southeast Asian voices.
Marking a new chapter in pop globalization the recording Academy’s acknowledgment of KAtseYe highlights a shift in how global pop is defined. once centered on language and geography, the category now embraces hybrid identities and cross-border collaborations. the group’s success offers a blueprint for how modern pop can transcend national boundaries while still honoring distinct cultural roots. members have shared messages of gratitude and excite-
ment after learning of their nominations, calling the moment a motivation to continue creating music that connects people worldwide.
As the countdown to the 2026 Grammy Awards begins, KAtseYe continues to expand their reach through performances and partnerships, proving that authenticity and global storytelling can coexist within mainstream pop. for sophia Laforteza and millions of filipinos around the world, the moment rises above trophies and titles. it reflects the quiet pride of achieving success while staying true to the roots that shaped her.
ca’s Got talent, taking home the show’s $1,000,000 grand prize. her return to manila for the grand countdown not only celebrates her international triumph but also marks a heartfelt reunion with the fans who have followed her journey from the very start. for inquiries and reservations, guests may reach out to the organizers via info@fhtcentertainment. com.
Fil-Am Darren Criss earns first Grammy nod for ‘Maybe Happy Ending’
The Broadway star continues to make history with his Grammy recognition
fiLiPiNo American actor and Broadway star Darren criss is adding another milestone to his already stellar resume as he scored his very first Grammy nomination. criss is nominated for his work on the “maybe happy ending” cast recording album, which earned a nod for Best musical theater Album at the upcoming Grammy Awards. the recognition marks yet another triumph for the multifaceted performer. criss has previously won both tony and emmy Awards for his diverse body of work in television and theater. on instagram stories, criss shared his gratitude to the re-
Facebook/@darrencriss
cording Academy. “Thank you to the Recording Academy for recognizing our little light,” he wrote. he went on to express how
special the nomination felt, noting that “it’s an honor to be nominated, especially alongside so many friends and colleagues working on Broadway.” he added that he is very proud to be representing our industry at the Grammys.” earlier this year, criss made history as the first known Asian actor to win the tony Award for Best Actor in a musical for “maybe happy ending.” he also took home another tony as a co-producer for the production honored as Best musical. the show’s official page also celebrated the recognition with a cheerful message: “We’ve got our playlist prepared. Maybe Happy Ending Original Broadway Cast Recording receives a GRAMMY nomination for Best Musical Theater Album!!”
Photo from Instagram/@newportrorldresorts
by Gavin Martinez
Darren Criss Photo from
Global girl group KATSEYE celebrates their first Grammy nominations for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Gabriela.”
Photo from Katseye’s Instagram page
Filipina American singer Sophia Laforteza, leader of KATSEYE
Photo from Sophia Laforteza’s Instagram page
Eman Bacosa Pacquiao shares how dad
by CeCile Baltasar Philstar.com
in the Nov. 9 episode of Kapuso mo, Jessica soho, eman, 21, narrated his difficult childhood, and how it took years before his father manny finally acknowledged him as his son. the amateur boxer was thrust into the limelight when his fight against Nico salado was one of the 13 matches featured in thrilla in manila 2 on oct. 29. the event was organized by the older Pacquiao's mP Promotions to mark the 50th anniversary of the original thrilla in manila, which was top-billed by muhammad Ali and Joe frazier. eman's win by unanimous decision pushed him into the public eye. his last name certainly also helped, as well as his good looks, which netizens have been comparing with actors Piolo Pascual and DingDong Dantes.
But underneath it all was a child just wanting to make his father proud.
When he was nine years old, eman told Jessica soho, he and his mother went to manny's home, where the elder Pacquiao was celebrating his birthday. they were made to wait at the gate for hours, eman recalled.
Siguro hindi rin alam ng daddy ko na nandoon kami," he said.
Growing up, eman said he always knew who his father was.
And when school bullies found
out, they frequently challenged him to fistfights after school, then ganged up on him to beat him up.
"Noong maliit pa po ako, naintindihan ko na 'yung sitwasyon. Maaga po akong nag-mature [dahil] sa mga nangyari sa buhay ko. Natintindihan ko po na meron siyang sariling pamilya. Kaya hindi na po ako masyadong nagtatanong [kung] bakit," eman said, refering to manny's five children with his wife Jinkee. he was an angry kid, eman said; always envious of other children who had fathers around, especially on father's Day. finally, in 2022, 10 years after they last saw each other, eman again went to his father's home. Unlike when he was nine, he was ushered inside, where manny warmly embraced him.
Niyakap ko rin siya. Pinipigilan ko po luha ko. Sobrang saya ko na nakita ko siya noon. Hanggang ngayon, hindi ko po makalimutan 'yung moment na 'yun," eman recalled.
But more than the long-overdue meeting, manny gave his son a more lasting gift: he signed a legal document where he officially acknowledged eman as his son, giving eman the Pacquiao name. Until then, eman went by his mother's last name, Bacosa. Sabi niya, 'Anak, gawin na kitang Pacquiao para mabilis pag-angat mo sa boxing'," eman recalled his father telling him.
since he was nine, eman had been wanting to become a boxer like his father. in a heart-to-heart talk with his dad, eman said, "Humingi siya ng tawad sa akin; pinatawad ko na rin siya. Sabi ko po sa kanya, 'Dad, naiintindihan ko naman po ang sitwasyon mo. Ang importante lang sa akin [ay] makasama kayo.'
manny was initially hesitant to encourage eman to continue boxing and told his son to just study and offered to send him to America.
Pero sabi ko, 'Dad, passion ko po ang boxing,'" eman said. he has since received boxing tips from his father, and even trained with him once.
After his thrilla in manila 2 win, eman posed for a photo with his father and Jinkee, showing all was well with them.
Maayos naman po kami ni Tita. Paminsan-minsan, nag-uusap naman po kami," eman said of his father's wife. he has also met Dionisia "mommy D" Pacquiao, his paternal grandmother. When manny introduced his son to his mother, eman recalled mommy D saying, "'Hala, kamukha mo talaga, Man.' Kamukhang kamukha ko po raw si Daddy pagdating sa pananalita at sa ugali.
eman currently lives with his mother, stepfather, and siblings in Antipas, North cotabato.
Kim chiu and Paulo Avelino aren’t a “love team” in the strictest sense. for starters, they’re not exactly wide-eyed teen hopefuls in need of a career break; they’re both established and bona fide stars well into their 30s. their first series, “Linlang” (2023)—a mystery thriller centered on a toxic marriage and infidelity— definitely doesn’t inspire kilig. And the collaboration, at least at first, didn’t seem like it was meant to be anything but a oneoff.
But their chemistry proved so unexpectedly potent that people latched onto them as if they had just discovered a new, next big thing. in a sort of role reversal in the traditional showbiz model, it was as if their fans who ended up selling the idea of the two together to the powers that be—not the other way around.
Too old for love teams
Producers sensed the buzz, and soon came follow-up projects: a filipino adaptation of the Korean drama “What’s Wrong with secretary Kim?” (2024), the romantic comedy film “my Love Will make You Disappear” (2025), and their latest offering, the Alibi,” on Prime Video.
Now, chiu and Avelino, at 35 and 37, respectively, find themselves christened with a classic, two-syllable love team tag of their own: “KimPau.”
“Feeling ko nakasanayan na lang ‘yan kasi unique ang term na ‘love team’ dito sa Pilipinas. I don’t see it that way. Maybe let’s leave that term to the kids, to the younger generation—parang bagay sa kanila,” Avelino tells Lifestyle inquirer with a laugh. “Parang ang tanda ko na para ma-label as a love team.”
Perhaps the more fitting word or phrase is “tandem” or “onscreen partnership.” Because, as Avelino sees things, it’s “about us playing different characters and tackling unique stories, more than us working together regularly.” still, it’s undeniable that their working relationship— regardless of what you call it— gets the full love team treatment and all its trappings: a legion of ardent fans, viral hashtags, gifts of food on the set, block screenings, billboards, free streaming platform subscriptions, and more.
“Ganyan talaga sila”
At the recent premiere of “the Alibi,” for instance, some 45 KimPau groups put up a show of support. Avelino is no stranger to fan adulation. But since he had never been part of any official love team, what he’s seeing now
is something he still can’t quite wrap his head around.
“‘Di naman bago sa ‘kin ‘to, but everything just feels heightened,” he says. “When you work with big stars like Kim Chiu, you have to know that they come with massive followings.” to which chiu quips, Napaka-OA!
“‘Di pa siya sanay… Na-shock siya na may iba-bang grupo pala ng KimPau,” shares chiu, the one vastly experienced navigating such a setup, having been part of two major pairings that shaped her career: “Kimerald” with Gerald Anderson and “KimXi” with Xian Lim.
I think 45 groups attended, and Pau was like, ‘Umabot na tayo sa ganun?’” she adds. “I told, ‘Ganyan talaga sila.’ it goes without saying that Avelino is the more reserved of the two. But while he has always valued his privacy, he’s fully aware of the effort the fans put in just to show their love. he notices all the banners, the posters hung on gates, and even the stickers of their faces on passing motorcycles.
chiu, on the other hand, has been one of the biggest and most consistent forces in mainstream entertainment since the late 2000s, starring in several box-office hits (“Bride for rent” and “the healing”) and top-rating soap operas (“Tayong Dalawa” and “Ina, Kapatid, Anak”). Which brings them to “the Alibi,” a mystery drama series that follows stella (chiu), a struggling dancer and escort whose life becomes even more complicated when she crosses paths with Vincent (Avelino), heir to one of the country’s biggest digital news empires. Vincent turns out to be a prime suspect in a high-profile murder case, and, in a desperate attempt to save his reputation, he strikes a deal with stella to serve as his alibi. there’s murder, there’s blood, and the occasional show of skin. it’s nothing new to Avelino, but intense and risky enough to be considered “daring”—“the most daring yet,” in fact—for chiu.
I’m thankful,” he says. “That’s time and effort they won’t get back, but they gave it to us anyway.” for her part, chiu sees the springing up of fan groups as a sign that she’s fulfilling her job as an entertainer. “They do that kasi sobrang mahal nila kami. In turn, they all become friends, too,” she says. “This is something you can’t just ask or demand from people.
Learning from each other While chiu helped Avelino ease himself into fan culture, Avelino has been similarly instrumental in guiding chiu toward more mature projects.
Both actors are products of reality shows: chiu from “Pinoy Big Brother” and Avelino from “starstruck.” the trajectories of their careers, however, couldn’t be more different.
Avelino has pursued a more experimental filmography, with forays into indie (“Ang Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa”), a historical epic (“Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral”), and several projects where he played morally gray characters (“fan Girl”).
My genre is so far from what he does in his world. Mine is colorful with lots of pinks and rainbows and butterflies,” says chiu, a rom-com and melodrama veteran. “But ito ang mundo niya na very serious! If you trace my journey from where I started, you would never imagine I would end up here.
And she must admit, she really felt the pressure to keep up with Avelino’s acting. “When you do heavy scenes with him, kailangan mo siyang habulin, kung hindi, maiiwan ka,” chiu says. Avelino has been nothing but generous, though, in helping her co-actor stay focused and intense—all while making the set feel safe during intimate scenes. “You have to have intent,” he says. “Of course, like with any friend or coworker, your relationship grows and trust is earned the more you work together.” this is the kind of working dynamic chiu and Avelino hope to foster and deliver time and time again—whether you call them a love team, a tandem, or onscreen partners.
“We’re fine with any,” chiu says. “As long as we do our jobs, and the fans feel happy and inspired, that’s all that matters.”
Actress AJ raval revealed that she gave birth to five children, three of them with her current partner and fellow actor Aljur Abrenica.
AJ was the guest of the November 11 episode of "fast talk with Boy Abunda" — with her father Jeric watching from the sidelines — where Boy and AJ first discussed the latter's romantic relationship with Aljur.
Boy then brought up the rumors that the couple already have two kids, to which the 25-year-old AJ shared she's already birthed five.
her eldest is a daughter named who is now seven years old. After shedding some tears, AJ said her next child was a son named Aaron, who was now deceased. Aljur's three children with AJ are a daughter named Aikena and two sons — Aljur Jr. and Abraham. AJ said she wanted to put an end to all the rumors and have the freedom of discussing her children, adding that Alas — Aljur's elder of two sons with exwife Kylie Padilla, the younger one is Axl — is very responsible towards his half-siblings. she described life as a young
mother was difficult but managed it with the help of family. Before doing the titular "fast talk" segment, AJ expressed her intention to return to acting. her response to the prompt "napapangiti ka sa umaga kapag?" was seeing her own kids. to close the show, Boy asked AJ what her message was to her children should
Filipino diaspora in San Francisco engages in “Building Global Partnerships: Partner, Grow, and Succeed in the Philippines” forum
sAN frANcisco – the Philippine consulate General, in partnership with the Philippine trade and investment center-silicon Valley (Ptic-sV) and the Asian consulting Group (AcG), hosted the forum “Building Global Partnerships: Partner, Grow, and succeed in the Philippines” on 05 November 2025 at Kalayaan hall, Philippine center. the event connected U.s.-based filipino American professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs with key opportunities in the Philippine market. in her welcome remarks, Deputy consul General cortes emphasized the Philippines’ economic resilience, and encouraged collaboration between the filipino American community and Philippine institutions. she highlighted opportunities in technology, manufacturing, renewable energy, and small business development, supported by a young, skilled workforce.
trade commissioner Kitchie
Umali shared that the Philippines posted 5.7% GDP growth in 2024, with UsD 8.9 billion in foreign direct investment inflows. she cited major reforms – including the corporate recovery and tax incentives for enterprises (creAte) Act and amendments to investment laws – that expand foreign participation in strategic sectors, alongside infrastructure developments, global supply chain diversification, and 427 operational ecozones ready for investors. AcG chief tax Advisor raymond Abrea highlighted key Philippine tax reforms and investment support for businesses, including simplified structures under creAte more, rationalized incentives, and programs through Dti Negosyo centers, small Business corporation (sB corp.), Boi, and PeZA. he emphasized fair, risk-based audits, streamlined compliance for small enterprises, and recommended lowering personal income taxes and VAt
to 10%, noting the government’s collaboration with international partners to align with global standards. the forum included a panel discussion moderated by ms. Genevieve Jopanda (fYLPro), addressing questions on investment in technology, services, manufacturing, and msmes, as well as dual citizenship, taxation, and the special investor resident Visa (sirV). Panelists also highlighted opportunities in data centers, renewable energy, and emerging film incentives.the event concluded with a networking session and the launch of mr. Abrea’s reimagining the World Without climate change, with attendees receiving copies of the book.the consulate reaffirmed its commitment to supporting trade and investment and continued collaboration with Ptic-sV, AcG, chambers of commerce, and community partners to promote Philippine economic opportunities.
Helping Veterans build new futures through employment and community
After 25 years in the U.s Navy, i thought i was ready for civilian life. i had served proudly as a Navy corpsman, a medic who cared for service members in every kind of situation. i had helped sailors plan their careers, mentored young recruits, and managed medical teams. i figured that after all that, the transition to a new career would be easy. But when i took off the uniform for the last time, i found myself asking a question i never expected: what now? Like many veterans, i discovered that the transition from military to civilian life can be disorienting. the structure, the purpose, and the sense of belonging all changed overnight. i took a few months off after retiring and realized i missed the rhythm of service. my wife, who is also a veteran, had found her second career with help from the employment Development Department (eDD). she encouraged me to give it a try. i joined eDD first as a parttime employment representative, helping job seekers navigate applications and connect to resources. then, i became a Disabled Veteran outreach Program specialist at the chula Vista America’s Job center of california. Now, my mission is to help fellow veterans find meaningful employment and overcome barriers like homelessness, financial hardship, or uncertainty about their next steps. in many ways, i’m still doing
what i did in the Navy: providing guidance, structure, and encouragement. i just do it now for veterans navigating civilian life. i help them polish resumes, connect with employers, and discover training programs through eDD’s veteran services and calJoBs, our online job search tool. And when a veteran comes in feeling lost, i help them map out a path forward.
eDD’s support for veterans goes far beyond job listings. We offer priority services for veterans and their spouses, access to job fairs, workshops, and career pathways through programs like calVet’s california transition Assistance Pathway (caltAP). Across california, veterans can walk into any America’s Job center of california and find someone ready to help. for me, that mission is deeply personal, especially as an Asian American and Pacific islander (AAPi) veteran. i was born and raised in the Philippines before moving to the United states and joining the Navy. Like many in our AAPi community, whether from the Philippines, Vietnam, Korea, china, Laos, the Pacific islands, or elsewhere, i know what it means to build a new life, to find belonging in a new country, and to start over while honoring the traditions and values we carry with us.
When i meet other AAPi veterans who feel uncertain or hesitant, i can often connect with them through shared cultural values like respect, family, perse-
verance, and community. sometimes that connection comes from language, like when i speak tagalog with filipino veterans, or from shared experiences of migration, identity, and service that resonate across our AAPi communities.
to my fellow veterans, especially those in the AAPi community, i want you to know that help is out there. Whether you’re a first-generation immigrant or born and raised here, your service matters, and so does your future. You served your country with pride. Now it’s our turn to serve you. Visit edd.ca.gov/ Veterans to learn about the programs, resources, and people ready to support your journey from service to success.
By Norman Manglicmot, Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Specialist
California’s Employment Development Department
by AJPress
Los ANGeLes – the U.s. Jus-
tice Department under President Donald trump filed a lawsuit thursday, November 23, to block california’s newly approved congressional map, opening a major legal battle that could influence which party controls the house of representatives after the 2026 midterm elections.
the case targets new district lines created under Proposition 50, a constitutional amendment that voters approved in a November 4 special election. the measure authorizes a Legislature-drawn congressional map for elections from 2026 through 2030 and temporarily replaces boundaries crafted by the independent california citizens redistricting commission after the 2020 census. supporters said california needed to respond to mid-decade partisan remapping in texas and other republican-led states.
DOJ says California used race illegally to shape political boundaries in its filing, the Justice Department argues that race predominated in drawing several districts without meeting constitutional standards. federal lawyers say the state relied on Latino population targets and racial considerations in ways that created an unlawful partisan advantage for Democrats.
“California’s redistricting scheme is a brazen power grab that tramples on civil rights and mocks the democratic process,” Attorney General Pamela Bondi said in a statement. she argued that the map relies on race in violation of supreme court rulings on racial gerrymandering.
the DoJ action aligns with an earlier lawsuit filed by the california republican Party and several GoP voters making similar claims under the fourteenth and fifteenth Amendments.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office rejected the allegations. spokesperson Brandon richards said critics “lost at the ballot box” and would likely lose again in court.
What Proposition 50 changed in California’s redistricting process
Proposition 50 reached the November ballot after the Democratic-controlled Legislature passed measures to call a special election and define new district boundaries through AB 604. Governor Newsom signed the implementing legislation in August. the amendment passed with about 64.6 percent support, according to the california secretary of state.
the Legislature-drawn map was designed by Democratic redistricting consultant Paul mitchell. Nonpartisan analysts say the plan gives Democrats a realistic chance to flip as many as five republican-held house seats by unpacking heavily Democratic districts and restructuring several GoP-leaning areas.
A remap shaped by a national arms race over House control california’s mid-decade redistricting move is widely viewed as a direct response to texas, where state lawmakers approved a trump-backed map expected to add up to five republican seats. Proposition 50 aims to offset those gains by creating new opportunities for Democrats. republicans currently hold 219 house seats, while Democrats hold 214. With such a narrow margin, even small shifts in key states could determine the house majority in 2026. the Justice Department’s filing notes that other states, including texas, missouri, North carolina and ohio, have taken steps toward mid-decade map changes, prompting their own legal challenges over race and partisanship. california’s case now forms part of a broader national fight over who draws political boundaries and how far states may go when using racial or partisan data. Millions poured into the campaign as political heavyweights took sides the Proposition 50 contest drew significant national spending. the congressional Leadership fund, a republican-aligned super PAc tied to house speaker mike Johnson, contributed about five million dollars to efforts opposing the measure. former california Governor Arnold schwarzenegger, who championed the creation of the
state’s independent redistricting commission, opposed Proposition 50 and said it undermined reforms intended to limit political influence. former President Barack obama endorsed the measure and appeared in advertisements urging voters to approve it, calling it a necessary response to partisan gerrymandering in republican-led states. the campaign also elevated Newsom’s national visibility at a time when he is widely viewed as a potential 2028 presidential contender.
Courts face tight election calendar as legal fight accelerates the Justice Department’s lawsuit will proceed in federal court alongside the earlier republican challenge. DoJ lawyers have asked judges to block use of the new map while litigation continues. if granted, the state could be required to revert to the 2020 commission-drawn map or adopt an interim plan. Judges have not indicated how they will handle the request.
With the 2026 election cycle approaching, the timing of any ruling is critical. courts must weigh whether it is more disruptive to alter districts close to an election or to allow a challenged map to remain in place for one cycle.
Manila, Dumaguete,
inspiration, stay for the camaraderie — everyone’s welcome!
Governor Gavin Newsom rallies supporters at a “Yes on 50” campaign event urging Californians to back the redistricting measure ahead of the November 2025 election. Photo from Instagram/@gavinnewsom
L-R: Vice Consul Hannah Eloisse Go, FYLPRO President Genevieve Jopanda, Deputy Consul General Maria Paz Cortes, ACG Chief Tax Advisor Raymond Abrea, and Trade Commissioner Anne Marie Kristine Umali showcase Mr. Abrea’s new book. San Francisco PCG photo
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Scammers don’t take holidays: How to help protect your money this season
There always seems to be a never-ending list of tasks during the holiday season, from booking flights to purchasing gifts for loved ones. As you prepare for the holidays, it’s also critical to keep an eye out for online scams that aim to steal your money and your joy.
Nationally, nearly 1 in 3 consumers reported falling victim to an online scam during the 2024 holiday season, and Californians have lost more than $1.7B to fraud and scams just last year. Scams are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, making them more convincing and harder to detect.
"The holidays are scammers’ busy season. From fake travel websites and false package delivery messages to phony charity donations, scammers take advantage of people's spirit of generosity and bustling holiday schedule," said Diedra Porché, National Head of Community and Business Development at JPMorganChase. “Your best defense to protect yourself and loved ones is to stay educated on common and emerging scam tactics.”
During the week of November 16, Chase will host over 20 fraud and scam education workshops across the country, in coordination with local law enforcement and other local partners. These workshops, which are free and open to the public, aim to educate the public on recognizing scams and empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves. Chase hosts over 1,000 fraud and scam education workshops per year across its more than 5,000 branches.
Don't let the threat of scams dampen your celebrations. Consider the following tips to help you celebrate safely.
Beware of unrealistic deals
When you have so many gifts to buy, you’ll want to look for bargains. However, make sure that the discounts you're offered are legitimate. Scammers often lure buyers with massive discounts, especially on popular and sold-out items, often using fake websites or social media ads. If you think, "this deal is too good to be true," listen to your gut. It's likely a scam.
Shop with trusted retailers
When shopping online or on social media, make sure to only buy from trusted websites and vendors. Review the website's URL and ensure that it starts with "https://" (the 's' stands for secure) as scammers can create fake websites to look like legitimate retailers. If you're unfamiliar with a store, search for the name with terms like "scam," "complaints," or "reviews" to uncover any red flags.
Be especially cautious when making purchases from social media marketplaces. Always verify the product exists before
purchasing and use payments with purchase protections, like a credit card, to pay.
Gift card scams typically begin with outreach from a scammer, often pretending to be someone else, who urgently pressures victims into buying specific gift cards and sharing the card numbers and PINs. Scammers use various stories, such as pretending to be government officials, tech support, friends or family in emergencies, prize promoters, utility companies, or online romantic interests. Remember: Legitimate organizations will never demand payment by gift card, and requests for gift card payments are a sign of a scam.
How you pay matters
Not all payment methods offer purchase protection. When buying gifts for the holiday season, consider using your debit and credit cards, as they may provide protections that allow you to dispute a charge if you don’t receive what you paid for or it’s not as you expected. If you purchase something using payment methods like Zelle®, wire transfers, gift cards, or cash, and it turns out to be a scam, it’s unlikely you’ll get your money back. Only use Zelle® to pay others you know and trust.
Seek out free resources
Give yourself peace of mind while shopping by using digital tools to monitor your personal information. For example, Chase Credit Journey® offers free credit and identity monitoring. This includes alerts to let you know if your data is exposed in a data breach or on the dark web. You don't have to be a Chase customer use it.
To learn more about how to help protect yourself from scams this holiday season, visit Chase.com/Security.
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For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described in this article or provided via links may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any business. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates are not responsible for, and do not provide or endorse third party products, services, or other content.
