111622 - Southern California Midweek Edition

Duterte ‘drug war’ still hot topic as Marcos...

all recommended that the Philippines take measures to ensure that the perpetrators of extrajudicial and summary killings linked to the "war on drugs" are made accountable.

Canada recommended that the Philippines, whose delegation was led by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla, "ensure that the victims of war on drugs have access to justice by investigating and prosecuting alleged illegal acts committed by law enforcement officials and swiftly concluding associated trial proceedings."

DOJ: Review of 'drug war' deaths ongoing, domestic processes working Remulla had already reported to the UNHRC that the Department of Justiceled review panel on "war on drugs" operations is still working and referred 302 incidents to the National Bureau of Investigation for case build-up.

The DOJ secretary also said the Philippines "has existing national accountability mechanisms, and has endeavored to improve datacollection, set up a national mechanism for implementation, reporting and follow-up of recommendations from UN human rights mechanisms," and it is pursuing a "humanrights based illegal drug control program."

The recognition of human rights is a departure from statements by officials early in the Duterte administration that drug suspects and criminals are "not really" human.

Anti-drugs operations have continued under the Marcos Jr. administration, and have resulted in dozens of deaths. Police Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, Philippine National Police chief, said that 32 have died in their operations while 14 others were killed in Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency operations.

The Czech Republic suggested that the Philippines "undertake an independent investigation of the extrajudicial killings related to the ‘war on drugs,’ ensure accountability for perpetrators as well as justice remedy and reparations for victims and families."

Return to International Criminal Court?

Countries have also urged the Philippines to consider rejoining the International Criminal Court, where families of the victims of the "war on drugs" have accused Duterte and his officials of committing crimes against humanity.

Austria said it regrets the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC, as they offered a recommendation to the Marcos government to reenter the Rome Statute and "ensure designing into law of the human

rights protection bill, amend [Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020] to conform with international human rights standards, support to children whose parents died due to ‘war on drugs’ added compensation."

Ireland also reminded the Philippines of its obligation to cooperate with ongoing investigations in alleged crimes against humanity committed during the Duterte administration.

But Marcos, who stressed the "importance of ensuring highlevel accountability" for human rights violations when he was still president-elect, has already dashed hopes for the country rejoining the ICC.

Barely five weeks into his presidenyc, Marcos said the country "has no intention of rejoining the ICC."

Lawyer Kristina Conti, counsel of families of "war on drugs" victims, said in an earlier Philstar.com report that Marcos’ decision "[deprives] ordinary Filipinos of an opportunity and a last resort for crimes against humanity, which most usually are crime committed by the State or massive political forces."

"Should Marcos also choose not to cooperate with the international court’s investigation supported and called for by many Filipinos, he will contend with a political storm with international impact," she added. g

Filipino baby girl is ‘symbolic’ 8 billionth...

said the world's population growth rate has dramatically decelerated.

The UN said annual growth has fallen from 2.1% between 1962 and 1965 to below 1% in 2020 and could even drop to around 0.5% by 2050. It also projects the population to continue growing to about 8.5 billion in 2030, 9.7 billion in 2050, and peak around 10.4 billion in the 2080s.

Dr. Leila Sajii Joudane, UNFPA Country Representative in the Philippines, said in a statement that it is of utmost importance that today’s 110

million Filipinos realize their full potential and human rights.

“We must give everyone the capacity and space to make informed and responsible decisions, provide opportunities to choose and exercise their human rights — including sexual and reproductive health, and enable access to quality education and equal chance for economic opportunities,” said Joudane.

The UN had previously designated children who were also milestone births from five billionth to seven billionth, and a report by the BBC shows where the individuals are now.

Adnan Mevic, 23, from Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina was designated the six-billionth baby, which led him to meeting football star Cristiano Ronaldo and is now looking for a job having finished his economics masters.

Following him was Sadia Sultana Oishee from Bangladesh, who was born in 2011 as the world's sevenbillionth baby; she is currently 11 years old and dreams of becoming a doctor.

Matej Gaspar, born in Zagreb in July 1987 as the five-billionth person, is happily married and a chemical engineer but has

Marcos touches base with...

forward to discussing how to further expand the Philippines' partnerships with China.

Li said he hoped for close collaboration with the Philippines and other ASEAN nations to ensure peace and stability in the South China Sea. He said the only way to guarantee this is by adhering to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and international laws, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

"And also let's work together for successful meetings," Li said, referring to the ASEANPlus Three (APT) which consists of the 10 ASEAN member states and China, Japan and South Korea.

During the ASEAN-U.S. summit, Marcos said his administration was stepping up efforts to combat crimes against Filipinos overseas such as terrorism and human trafficking. He asked for the continuation of the engagement and capacity-building programs for law enforcement agencies and personnel through the International Law Enforcement Academy and the Senior Officials' Meeting on Transnational Crime

+ U.S. (SOMTC + U.S.). Marcos assured the Philippines' full commitment to attaining regional peace and security.

"We regard as of primary import Quad's assurance of unwavering support for ASEAN unity and Centrality with the view that such minilateral mechanisms should complement the ASEAN-centered regional security architecture," he noted.

Quad is the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue between Australia, India, Japan and the U.S.

The President said the joint statement to establish the ASEAN-U.S. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) "is a strengthening of our relationship and will serve as an additional anchor to our regional architecture and to the current international order that is presently volatile and constantly in flux."

The CSP is designed to "reflect the ambitious outcomes of the 9th ASEAN-U.S. Summit and the 2022 ASEAN-U.S. Special Summit and to open new areas of cooperation vital to the future prosperity and security of our combined 1 billion people, and task our officials to follow up on its implementation."

Also on Saturday, Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida agreed to further strengthen the partnership between their two governments. The two leaders had a brief chat during a break in the APT summit, with Kishida noting he was very pleased to have a talk with Marcos in New York City last September.

"Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the friendship and cooperation between Japan and ASEAN. And I look forward to advancing the cooperation between ASEAN and Japan," Kishida told Marcos.

In response, the President said the Philippines and Japan can achieve anything, "as long as they are together."

"All of the concepts that we first started to discuss when we were in New York, we are continuing to develop in our government so that when the time comes this concept that you have introduced to us on economic stability, is something ... that ASEAN, the Philippines — we will continue to develop more of these ideas, and these concepts," he said.

Kishida said he looks forward to Marcos' state visit to Japan, although no date has been set for it. g

EDUCATION BUDGET. Senator Pia Cayetano (left) sponsors the proposed 2023 budget of the Department of Education (DepEd) and its attached agencies worth P678.1 billion on Monday, Nov. 14. At the resumption of the deliberations of the proposed P5.268-trillion national budget for 2023, Cayetano took the floor to support and defend the proposed DepEd budget which, she said, is her fourth time as senator. Photo courtesy of Senate PRIB

Voters of color, women shape midterm...

APIAVote conducts an annual survey of Asian American and Pacific Islander voters.

“We noticed that there’s an increasing number of independent voters among the Asian American electorate, 35% overall, and the Chinese actually had the largest percentage… at 47%. Even the Vietnamese, who support Republicans at a higher rate than any other Asian ethnic group, are losing party identification to independents,” Chen said.

Driving many black women were concerns around safety, said Karma Cottman, who leads Ujima, which focuses on violence targeting women in the black community. “Safety for us as women, safety for us as members of the black community, overlaid with what safety looks like in terms of physical and financial safety so we are able to take care of our families.”

Cottman pointed to down ballot elections, noting strong support for black female candidates. “We were voting up and down ballot for black women,” she said.

Voter intimidation, meanwhile, did not prove to be a major issue this election, says Gowri Ramachandran, senior counsel of the Brennan Center’s Democracy program. “We had law enforcement leaders in some communities coming out and saying, look, intimidation of voters and of election workers is not going to be tolerated,” she said.

Exit polls showed Republicans gaining ground in support among African Americans, Latinos, and Asian Americans. While support for Democrats remained high among women and young voters, Cottman echoed those who say Democrats spent

too much time trying to flip predominantly white districts instead of investing resources in communities of color.

While Democrats maintained control of the Senate following a narrow win this weekend by Nevada’s Catherine Cortez Masto, control of the House remains in question, though Republicans have the advantage.

Common Cause National Redistricting Director Kathay Feng says extreme gerrymandering was a decisive factor in Republicans’ strong showing in states like Ohio and Florida and will be key should they retake the House.

In red states where the state legislature controls redistricting and Republican governors approve the maps they draw, the fight for fair maps is a David vs Goliath proposition. But in North Carolina and Minnesota, courts forced district maps to be redone. And in New Mexico, Native Americans threatened to blockade the commission if it didn’t redraw the Navajo districts. They did so.

Feng, who has been at the center of efforts to challenge partisan gerrymandering through litigation and statebased organizing around ballot initiatives and legislation, says citizens have been able to get maps drawn fairly where election commissions do the redistricting.

“Across the board we saw many improvements,” she noted, pointing to states like California, Michigan and Colorado.

In Michigan, voters passed a measure in 2018 to create an independent Redistricting Commission. It has made a big difference there. State Representative Joe Tate is likely to become the first black speaker of the Michigan House. In Detroit and nearby

suburbs, an African American is going to be representing this district for the first time in Washington. And in Michigan’s 12th Congressional District, incumbent Democrat Rashida Tlaib, who is Palestinian American, will be representing her newly configured district.

In Colorado, the Citizens Redistricting Board meeting for the first time drew a Congressional district with a 40% Latino population. “And that district, the Congressional 8th, elected for the first time a Latina representative to be part of the Congressional Colorado delegation,” Feng said.

“It’s significant to note that in each of these states there has been tremendous participation by communities of color to come out and talk about where those communities are, to talk about the growth, and to make sure that the lines are truly reflective of those communities,” she added.

Feng drew a sharp comparison with the growth of Latino populations in Texas and the black population in Florida. “Those communities were sliced and diced up so that the growth was not represented, or the historic representation was essentially dismantled. So, we see a significant difference between the states that have commissions of some form or another and those that do not,” she said.

Feng likened redistricting to fixing democracy’s clogged plumbing.

“You don’t want to know what’s in there. You don’t want to look at it. And when it bursts, it’s a mess. And that’s why you’ve got to fix it before you have that disaster… and because so many communities participated in redistricting, this time round, we saw a lot of that plumbing get fixed.” (Peter White/Ethnic Media Services)

DOT breaches tourism target with over...

that will convey not only the country’s openness to welcome more tourists, but also conduciveness to tourism business and livelihood opportunities for our fellow Filipinos.”

Frasco also detailed that the lion’s share of foreign tourist arrivals in the country

comes from the United States with 385,121, followed by South Korea and Australia with 285,583 and 96,297, respectively.

Recovering the tourism sector from the slump caused by the years-long COVID-19 pandemic is among the priorities of the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos

Jr. as he previously noted that tourism is a “high potential driver for the transformation [of] the economy.”

Marcos had also issued executive orders to make wearing of face masks optional in both indoor and outdoor settings which, the DOT said, could help boost the revival of the tourism industry. g

ASEAN, US affirm strategic ties as Biden vows...

cultural pillars, and its priorities for cooperation," the leaders said in a joint statement issued through the White House.

Among the commitments they signed is advancing efforts to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals “by promoting complementarities between the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”

They stressed a focus on “eradicating poverty, promoting the conservation of natural resources and the environment, and promoting peace and prosperity through equitable development and sustainable economic growth, including in the fields of energy resilience [and] enhance partnerships in economic and technological cooperation, catalyze investments in highstandard, transparent, and climate-resilient infrastructure."

The heads of government also vowed "practical cooperation" in the areas of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, maritime security, counterterrorism, peacekeeping operations, military medicine, humanitarian mine action, and cyber security through the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus framework.

They also committed to building "people-to-people connectivity within the region and beyond" by enhancing economic and socio-

cultural cooperation, focusing on good governance and the rule of law, investing in human capital development, empowering youth and vulnerable or marginalized groups, advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, investing in education, promoting and protecting cultural heritage, and empowering women and girls and promoting gender equity and equality.

South China Sea among ‘biggest issues of our time’

U.S. President Biden has earlier said he will discuss "the biggest issues of our time" in his first visit to Southeast Asia as president, saying the region was "at the heart of our Indo-Pacific strategy ."

"Together, we will tackle the biggest issues of our time, from climate change to health security; defend against the significant threats of rules-based order — to rules-based order and to the — threats to the rule of law; and to build an IndoPacific that is free and open, stable and prosperous, resilient and secure," Biden said in his remarks at the Summit.

"We’re putting real resources behind our approach, not just rhetoric. Over the last year, my administration has announced more than $250 million in new initiatives with ASEAN,” the US president added.

For next year, Biden said he already requested $825 million in assistance for Southeast Asia. “We’re continuing to build

on that progress, following through on our commitments and launching concrete new initiatives that further strengthen ASEAN and increase — increase connectivity across Southeast Asia," he continued.

In a statement, the White House said that both the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and the Indo-Pacific Strategy of the United States share relevant fundamental principles in promoting an open, inclusive, and rules-based regional architecture, in which ASEAN is central, alongside partners who share in these goals.

According to Biden, Washington is pushing for a U.S.-ASEAN Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Initiative and a U.S.-ASEAN Platform for Infrastructure and Connectivity to develop an electric vehicle ecosystem in Southeast Asia and bring the benefits of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment to the ASEAN countries.

"Through this platform, we’ll develop projects together, based on the needs you identify, to create sustainable, high-standard infrastructure that supports the people of the region. We will build a better future — the better future we all say we want to see and we’re going to see for all but — all one billion people in our countries," he said.  (Franco Luna and Kristine Joy Patag/ Philstar.com)

OVERLOADED POST. Two Meralco linemen disentangle and transfer the wires to a concrete power pole from the leaning power pole (right) at the corner of Antique and Sto. Niño Street in Bago Bantay, Quezon City on Monday, Nov. 14. Residents fear the possibility of a fire breaking out in the area because of the numerous wire attached to the old power pole. PNA photo by Ben Briones

DATELINE PHILIPPINES

APEC presents the Philippines with more opportunities for trade, investments

MANILA – The participation of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in the upcoming AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders Meeting in Thailand presents even more opportunities for the country’s continued economic growth, Speaker Martin G. Romualdez said on Tuesday, November 15.

“The APEC Summit is a step up because there are more developed countries involved,” Romualdez told House reporters, as he stressed the importance of personal engagements and developing close relations with leaders of other countries or economies.

Romualdez said the Philippines is fortunate to have “a very able statesman” in President Marcos who is very popular in the international community.

He said among the factors that Marcos can utilize to promote the country as an attractive investment or tourism destination, as well as a good trading partner are the country's higher-than-expected 7.6 percent third quarter economic growth; the reduction in the unemployment rate; a young population; and the dollar remittances of overseas Filipino workers(OFWs), among others.

“So, I think now is the time

to herald that the Philippines is doing well. Its economy is doing well, and now is the time to invest in the Philippines so that we get more foreign direct investments for the capital that we need to generate more jobs and livelihood for Filipinos, and to bring about a stronger and more vibrant economy, so that all Filipinos have a safe and comfortable life,” Romualdez said.

The Speaker, who had accompanied Marcos at the recent Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summits in Cambodia, will also be a part of the official Philippine delegation to APEC.

Citing his experience in the ASEAN summits, Romualdez said the APEC Summit also presents opportunities for him to engage with his counterparts in the legislative bodies of the member countries.

For instance, Romualdez noted that it was during the bilateral meeting between the Philippines and Vietnam when the visit to the Philippines of the leader of Vietnam’s National Assembly, reportedly among the top contenders to be the next Prime Minister of his country, was announced.

“So, these types of engagements

mean a lot. Because when you have a personal engagement with these leaders, it is easier to communicate, coordinate, and to support each other on various sectors -- whether it is economic, trade, or inter-parliamentary relations -- that promotes better harmony,” Romualdez said.

Since the economy has become global, he said it would be to the advantage of the Philippines to promote better trade with other countries, which can be achieved by forging good trade agreements with partner economies.

“And that is usually shaped by policies mandated by the heads of state, but usually forged by legislation. So, these types of engagements and visits are very beneficial,” Romualdez said.

APEC is an inter-governmental forum for 21-member economies in the Pacific Rim that promotes free trade throughout the AsiaPacific region.

The 21-member economies of APEC are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, the United States and Vietnam. (PNA)

DOH might seek extension of state of calamity to keep COVID response going

MANILA — The Department of Health said on Tuesday, November 15 it will recommend the extension of the COVID-19 state of calamity if a bill allowing government to implement pandemic protocols is not signed into law by next month.

The Philippines remains a nationwide state of calamity due to the COVID-19 pandemic after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. extended the declaration until December 31. The extension allowed the government to continue implementing measures against COVID-19 and access pandemic response funds.

Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said it will ask the Office of the President to extend the declaration of the state of calamity or to allow local governments to proclaim state of calamity in their localities should Congress not act on the Public Health Emergency for Emerging and Reemerging Disease Bill.

Vergeire, however, stressed that giving local governments authority to make their own state of calamity declarations is not going to address the issue.

"Under the bill, even though there is no state of calamity declaration or public health

emergency declaration, we can still continue to implement our vaccination program. We can still do expedited procurement, we can still do the other things we are doing right now for this pandemic," she said.

The health official added there is a recommendation to merge the bill on public health emergency with the proposed measure to create a Philippine Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC).

The Philippines has over 4 million COVID-19 cases, with more than 64,000 deaths, since the start of the pandemic.  (Gaea Katreena Cabico/Philstar.com)

TIPS FOR A HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON

Make

everyone wants to celebrate safely.

Stay healthy to ensure you can fully enjoy all the celebrations.

Getting your vaccine and updated booster will help protect you and your loved ones so you can make the most of the festivities together. The holidays are a busy time of year and staying healthy ensures you can fully enjoy all the celebrations with family and friends.

Enjoy your festivities in the fresh air.

Consider hosting your guests outdoors, if weather permits. If gathering indoors, open a few windows to keep fresh air circulating.

Test before gathering.

At-home COVID-19 tests provide a sense of security before you gather. Testing positive for COVID-19 means staying home until symptoms have passed.

Consider wearing a mask based on local transmission rates.

COVID-19 case rates and hospitalizations can change quickly. It’s a good idea to know what’s going on in your community and to recognize your own tolerance levels and those of your guests. If you’re hosting a large indoor event, consider placing a basket of masks at the door for your guests if they choose to wear one. Attending a large-scale event? Remember to bring a well-fitting mask to use when you arrive if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Bantag: No arrest warrant, no surrender

by FRANCO JOSE C. BAROÑA , FRANCIS EARL CUETO AND WILLIAM B. DEPASUPIL ManilaTimes.net

SUSPENDED Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gerald Bantag, who is implicated in the killing of broadcaster Percival "Percy Lapid" Mabasa and a prison inmate, said on Monday, November 14 he will not surrender until an arrest warrant is issued against him.

Bantag said in an interview that Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla is in a hurry to get him jailed by asking him to surrender despite the fact that the preliminary investigation in the Mabasa case has not even started.

"I don't have an arrest warrant yet, but he is asking me to surrender. There is no subpoena yet. There is no preliminary investigation. Nothing yet. Why are they in a hurry. It's like they want to put me in jail already," said Bantag. "Kung ako ay ibon, inilagay na nila ako sa hawla, ganoon ang gusto nilang mangyari (If I were a bird, they would have put me in

a cage. That is what they want to happen)," he added.

Bantag admitted he had a good working relationship with Remulla before he was implicated as the mastermind in the Mabasa murder.

PRICE ADJUSTMENT. An attendant fills up the fuel tank of a motorcycle rider at a gas station along Congressional Road in Barangay Salitran III, Dasmariñas City in Cavite on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Diesel and kerosene prices decreased by P0.50 and P0.35 per liter, respectively, while gasoline prices increased by P1.40 per liter, amid developments in the international market and the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict. PNA photo by Gil Calinga

Remulla "behaved really well towards me, he was saying that we have the same boss [former president Rodrigo Duterte]. That's why I feel bad because Boying Remulla just took me for 

Low talent competitiveness

WE already know that Filipino 10-year-old students have a serious problem with reading comprehension and perform poorly in other education indicators. The country’s 10-notch slide in the 2022 Global Talent Competitiveness Index or GTCI is just the latest validation of the urgent need to improve the quality of Philippine education to a level that is at least at par with its regional peers.

Published by the INSEAD Business School, Portulans Institute and Human Capital Leadership Institute, the GTCI assesses how countries and cities enable, grow, attract and retain talent.

Editorial

Within Southeast Asia, the Philippines ranked 80th among 133 countries – behind not only consistent overachiever Singapore, which placed second overall after Switzerland, and oil-rich Brunei (41st place), but also Malaysia (45th), Vietnam (74th) and Thailand (75th). At least the Philippines was ahead of Indonesia (82nd), Laos (99th) and Cambodia (103rd).

For a country whose consumption-driven economy is heavily dependent on the remittances of its 10-million-strong army of overseas workers, the Philippines’ place in the GTCI, and its 10-spot fall in the current rankings, should be a serious cause for concern.

The GTCI report notes that the level of economic prosperity and the capacity to invest in education clearly affect the quality of education. The top 10 countries in the GTCI are all upperincome economies. Following Switzerland and Singapore are Denmark, the United States, the Netherlands, Norway, Finland, Australia and the United Kingdom.

Among cities, Manila – or Metro Manila – also

slipped in ranking, from 128th last year to 129th place. The top cities in the GTCI are San Francisco, Boston, Zurich, Seattle, Lausanne, Singapore, Geneva, Helsinki, Munich and Dublin.

The Philippines may have limited resources, but political will and government spending priorities also play a part in delivering quality education. Vietnam, a lower middle-income economy like the Philippines, is ahead in the GTCI.

President Marcos has correctly emphasized the need to refocus on teaching STEM or science, technology, engineering and mathematics. He has also expressed his objective of restoring English proficiency among all Filipinos.

So far, however, his education secretary seems preoccupied with inculcating militarytype discipline among the youth, and eradicating “subversive” ideas from the public school environment. This can prove to be a slippery slope: anything that contradicts the narrative about the true, the good and the beautiful about the current dispensation and the forebears of its top officials may be deemed subversive.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization had warned about the adverse impact of prolonged lockdowns on education. UNESCO also noted that students in developing countries like the Philippines are

ASEAN region: Center of attention

BABE ROMUALDEZ

THE flurry of activities in the Southeast Asian region with a series of high-level summits and meetings this whole week only brings into focus the importance of the role that ASEAN plays in the global stage.

After almost three years of no human contact, the ASEAN summit is being held in-person, with high expectations that the discussions will be substantial on a number of issues that include sustainable and inclusive recovery from COVID-19, food security, trade and investment, climate change and other burning issues such as the situation in Myanmar, the war in Ukraine, the threat of missile tests conducted by North Korea as well as the territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

The ASEAN summits and related summits was an opportunity for the leaders from ASEAN member-nations (with the exception of Myanmar which is barred due to the takeover of

a military junta) and their dialog partners that include Australia, Canada, China, Japan, India, South Korea, the United States plus the United Nations to “review existing and new areas of cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues,” as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. described it.

Then there is the G-20 summit in Bali, Indonesia where US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to attend, with a bilateral meeting on the sidelines. It will be the first time that the two leaders will have a face-to-face meeting for an “in-depth and substantive conversation… aimed at better understanding one another’s priorities and intentions,” according to a senior official of the Biden administration.

Similar to the ASEAN summit (where Ukraine and the regional group signed the “Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia”), Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the G-20 summit, although there is the possibility that he will join virtually. Analysts

say the non-attendance of Putin at the ASEAN summit did not come as a surprise, especially since Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen has openly expressed “concern” over Russia’s attack on Ukraine – the lives lost, the damage to civilian infrastructure and other consequences of the ongoing war which began in February.

Following the G-20 summit is the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Bangkok, Thailand with US Vice President Kamala Harris in attendance. State Secretary Antony Blinken is also joining to advance “economic policies in the Asia-Pacific region to promote free, fair and open trade and investment.” Secretary Blinken will also be providing support to VP Harris in underscoring the economic leadership of the United States and outlining their goals for the 2023 APEC which the US will be hosting for the first time since 2011.

All of these high-level meetings happening in the region revolve around significant issues that have wide-reaching global impact, while also underscoring

ASEAN centrality and its role in promoting multinational relations. More significantly, the series of summits also provides an opportunity for the regional bloc to showcase its ability to convene global leaders to “meet and dialogue” and bring about a “defusion of tensions,” according to Sharon Seah, a senior fellow at the Singaporebased think-tank ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute.

And as we in the ASEAN diplomatic community have been telling our friends in Washington, the Southeast Asian region is the right place now where all of these big powers can start a dialogue or, at the very least, have personal interaction. ASEAN diplomats are pleased that these meetings are taking place because it doesn’t happen all the time that you can have these leaders in one place where there is an opportunity for serious discussions.

For the past two years, meetings between President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping have been conducted virtually, and all are hoping there would be some constructive results

through the in-person meetings, bringing about a better understanding or appreciation of each other’s perspectives or positions on complicated issues involving both super powers.

All of us in ASEAN feel that there is only one way out –and that is through continuing dialogue which has always been the stand of the Philippines.

“While we may continue to argue or even disagree on many issues, we will try to convince and persuade until we find a peaceful resolution,” President Marcos has always said.

It goes without saying that Taiwan remains to be a hotbutton issue, and President Biden had said that when he speaks with President Xi, he wants to “lay out what each of our red lines are and understand what he believed to be in the critical national interests of China, what I know to be the critical interests of the United States.”

During the “Asia Future Summit” organized by The Straits Times, all the panelists agreed that any war between the two super powers should definitely be avoided at all costs

as the consequences would be disastrous for all. As Harvard professor Graham Allison clearly pointed out, China and the US will have to co-exist because the alternative would be codestruction.

We all know what a conflict can do, which is what is happening in Ukraine now where we only see so much death and destruction. This is no longer about politics, but the destruction and annihilation of mankind. “What God created, man destroys,” is what it all boils down to.

All the citizens of the world –Russians, Chinese, Americans and definitely Filipinos – we all do not want a nuclear war, knowing fully well that there will absolutely be no winners – only losers. In the end, the world will only see darkness and never see the light of day ever again. (Philstar.com)

* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * *

babeseyeview@gmail.com

Commentary Get boosted and give yourself the gift of good health this holiday season

DR. DALI FAN, UC DAVIS HEALTH

THE winter is fast approaching and bringing in colder weather, it is more important than ever to get yourself and your family vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. For people ages 65 and older, getting the updated COVID-19 booster is critically important since the risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 increases with age.

COVID-19 infection causes the highest hospitalization and death rates among older adults and getting your COVID-19 booster can help reduce the risk of infection and severe illness. Adults between the ages of 50 and 64 are 25 times more likely to die from COVID-19 than adults between the ages of 18 and 29. For older adults ages 65 to 74, the risk increases significantly and rises to 60 times more likely to die from COVID-19 than

younger adults. We know that older adults are best protected from severe illness when they stay up to date with booster doses. Getting vaccinated and boosted can help reduce the number of inpatients and avoid overwhelming hospitals and care centers.

I am a physician; I care about your health, and I implore you to do your part and get vaccinated and boosted to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you feel sick, be sure to get tested before participating in any gatherings this holiday season to minimize the risk of exposing others. As we look forward to seeing our family and friends this holiday season, I am sharing responses to some commonly asked questions to ensure you and your family are protected.

Question: Is it safe to gather with my family for the holidays if infection rates are expected to be high?

Response: We know seeing family and friends are an important part of the holidays. When gathering, it is highly

recommended that you take the proper precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. That means it is okay to set rules so that you are all celebrating safely. Before gathering, encourage your friends and family to:

• Get vaccinated and their updated booster

• Test for COVID before and after the gathering • Stay home if you feel sick • Consider wearing a mask. A great host idea is to place a basket of masks at the door to encourage your guests to wear a mask.

Question: The threat of COVID-19 does not feel as dangerous anymore. Do I still need to wear a mask?

Response: Wearing a mask in public indoor spaces also helps reduce the spread of many different respiratory viruses including RSV, flu and COVID.

All of us are tired of hearing about COVID-19, but the virus is still here and continues to have an impact on our lives. Research shows that COVID-19 has shortened our overall life

expectancy by about three years, with greater impacts on communities of color. There are many contributing factors to why communities of color are disproportionately impacted, but what we do know is that getting vaccinated and staying up to date with the updated boosters can help close this gap and increase health outcomes.

Question: Why should I prioritize getting my parents and/or grandparents boosted with the updated booster when they were just vaccinated last Spring?

Response: Booster doses help sustain protection against severe disease. That is why it is especially important to encourage older populations to get the updated booster to reduce their risk of getting COVID-19 and minimize the health impacts if they do get sick. Additionally, there are long-term effects such as strokes, migraines, memory problems, depression and anxiety, seizures and tremors,

and other symptoms like what is experienced with Parkinson’s disease that could come with getting COVID-19.

Question: I am young and healthy. Why do I still need to get the updated booster?

Response: COVID-19 and its variants are circulating. The updated booster is recommended even if you've already had COVID-19 infection and the COVID-19 vaccination because it helps sustain your protection against severe disease and reduce your risk of hospitalization and death.

Question: Am I eligible to receive a booster? I thought they were limited to only certain groups.

Response: Everyone ages 5 and up is eligible and encouraged to get their booster. Staying up to date on your COVID-19 vaccine and the updated booster shot provides you with the best protection. That is why it is important to get your booster dose as soon as you are eligible, typically two months after receiving your last

dose. Also, your booster can be a different vaccine brand than you received previously, which does not impact its ability to protect you.

Question: I just received my flu shot. Is it still safe for me to get my booster?

Response: Yes! Not only is it very convenient, but it is also completely safe to get both your flu shot and updated booster at the same time. We know the holidays are a busy time of year. Do your part to stay healthy so that you can fully enjoy the many celebrations with family and friends now through the new year.

Learn more about how to stay safe and to make your next vaccination or booster appointment today by visiting MyTurn.ca.gov or call 833422-4255.

* * *

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.

ANDY

DING

bearing the brunt of the adverse impact of two years of remote learning. The government will need to work double-time on education to catch up with the world. (Philstar.com)

Fewer killings in new drug crackdown – PNP chief

AUTHORITIES have killed 46 drug suspects and arrested

more than 22,000 others under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s campaign, the national police chief said Monday, and added the lower death toll underscores efforts to avoid lethal force.

Marcos Jr., who took office in June, has vowed to press on with his predecessor's crackdown on illegal drugs, which left thousands of mostly petty suspects dead, but said it would be done differently and focus more on rehabilitating drug dependents.

The widespread drug killings under Duterte were condemned by Western governments and human rights groups and sparked an investigation by the International Criminal Court as a possible crime against humanity.

"You can see here the Philippine National Police now wanted to minimize as much as possible the killings of people engaged in drug activities," the country's police chief, Rodolfo Azurin Jr., told Manila-based foreign correspondents in an online news conference.

"I emphasize to every policeman, if it will not endanger their lives, we minimize the use of force in arresting suspects in criminal activities," Azurin said.

Thousands were killed in the first year of the brutal crackdown Duterte launched after taking office in 2016. He had denied condoning extrajudicial killings in his so-called war on drugs but had openly threatened to kill suspects until his final year in power.

Marcos Jr.'s landslide victory in the May 9 elections has been partly credited to his alliance with his popular predecessor's daughter and now vice president, Sara Duterte. But Marcos has tried to stay away from Duterte's widely condemned campaign.

In an interview with The Associated Press in New York in September, Marcos was asked if Duterte went too far with his lethal drug crackdown. Marcos redirected the criticism toward those who carried out the plan.

"His people went too far sometimes," Marcos told the AP. "We have seen many cases where policemen, other operatives, some were just shady characters that we didn't quite know where they came from and who they were working for. But now we've gone after them." Still, Marcos has come under fire from human rights groups himself for continuing Duterte's crackdown that has led to new killings.

Azurin, who was appointed under Marcos, refused to comment on the scale of drug deaths under Duterte but said some law enforcers then may have not properly assessed that some suspects were "not really harmful." The 46 suspects killed were slain in 32 of more than 18,000 operations, which led to about 22,000 arrests and the seizure of P9.7 billion ($167 million) worth of illegal drugs, Azurin said.

Anti-drug policies were being reviewed and the focus was being shifted to rehabilitating drug dependents, providing them with livelihood skills to wean them from addiction and educating communities to harness residents in the fight against drugs, he said.

"It is more of doing a more responsive approach than what it used to be," Azurin said.

More than 6,200 suspects, mostly poor peddlers and dealers, were killed under Duterte based on police statistics. But human rights groups have cited higher death tolls and accused some police officers of fabricating evidence to make it appear the victims resisted violently. (ManilaTimes.net with reports from Associated Press)

Defense chief: Philippines has one of weakest military capabilities in region

by Francis Earl cuEto ManilaTimes.net

THE military capability of the Philippines can be considered one of the weakest in the region, Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr., Department of National Defense Officer-inCharge, admitted on Monday, November 14.

Answering queries by lawmakers before the House of Representatives' Committee on National Defense and Security as to why the Philippines in particular the Armed Forces failed to prevent China from erecting structures in the West Philippine Sea, Faustino said it is one of the main reasons as to why there is an urgent need to fund the AFP's modernization program.

The DND official likewise said that they are open to a possible joint venture when it comes to using idle military lands. He, however, said that the properties

will not be sold.

Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers asked as to why despite the intelligence funds of the military, the AFP has not prevented China from building a military facility in the WPS.

Faustino said they were aware, but were cautious.

"We are very careful in dealing with this using military action, because we might be subjecting ourselves to mistakes

and miscalculations... But rest assured, the constructions, we were aware of it. There were hundreds of diplomatic protests," he said.

Rep. Barbers suggested that it is best to show China that the Philippines is no pushover.

But Faustino said that the military capability of the Philippines is not at par with the neighbors.

"I would not say that we are a pushover. Admittedly, our military capability is one of the weakest in the region. It is exactly why we are trying to modernize right now. We are trying to strengthen our position... we align with our treaty partners, allies, like-minded countries. We would like to have a rules-based international order in those areas," he said.

Despite this, Faustino assured lawmakers that the AFP has been patrolling and maintaining its presence in the West Philippine Sea with available resources. g

Bantag: No arrest warrant, no...

a ride," he said. He said Remulla even directed him to coordinate with the Department of Public Works and Highways in finalizing the details of the construction of a maximum security prison for 2,000 heinous crime convicts in Sablayan, Mindoro Occidental early next year.

"He manipulated me. He is so good; he is a really good politician," Bantag said, referring to Remulla.

He said that as early as last August, he already knew that former military chief Gregorio Catapang Jr. will be taking over his post at the BuCor.

"That is the reason why I already tendered my courtesy resignation that time so that when the new administration comes we will give it to the new one who will be appointed, because we are used to procedures in the government. Remulla, however, turned down my resignation. He said, 'Never mind, you are already there,'" Bantag said.

He refuted the Justice secretary's claim that he was enraged last September 9 after Mabasa showed the video of his house in Laguna on his program, "Lapid Fire."

Remulla said Mabasa described the house as belonging to the "Cinderella Man," a government official who enriched himself while in office.

He added that the expose drove Bantag to have the broadcaster killed.

"But what really happened was that I sent Remulla a link of the said video that day and asked him for advice on what I should do, since he is the Justice chief and he is a lawyer. But he did not reply; he did not even react," he said.

Bantag said he then sounded out his former classmates at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) if he should sue Mabasa.

He said he sent his message through their Viber chat group that also included not only members of PMA class of 1996 but also several government officials who were "adopted" by their batch.

When he viewed the entire video, he found nothing incriminating in it, so he just brushed it aside.

"So how can they say that this was what pushed me to order the killing of Mabasa? Why

does [Remulla] have to make up stories?" Bantag said.

Remulla also said Bantag did not attend the graduation ceremony of the University of Perpetual Help in New Bilibid Prison on September 9 after learning that Mabasa had taken pictures of his Laguna residence.

Remulla said Bantag's absence was significant because all of the school's board of trustees were present at the event.

Bantag and BuCor Deputy Security Officer Ricardo Zulueta were charged as "principals by inducement" in the killings of Mabasa and inmate Cristito Villamor, the alleged middleman who contracted the team of assassins.

Also charged were NBP inmates Denver Batungbakal Mayores, Alvin Cornista Labra, Aldrin Micosa Galicia and Alfie Peñaredonda.

Charged with Bantag and Zulueta in the Villamor case were inmates Christian Dizon Ramac, Ricky Lamigo Salgado, Ronnie Pabustan de la Cruz and Joel Alog Reyes.

The two murder complaints will be consolidated with the case filed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) on October 18 against Joel Escorial and his four alleged accomplices — brothers Edmon and Israel Dimaculangan, a person identified only as "Orly" or "Orlando," and Christopher Bacoto, a Bureau of Jail Management and Penology inmate, who is alleged to be the second middlemen in the Mabasa killing.

On Monday, the prosecuting team from the Department of Justice (DoJ) issued subpoenas to Bantag and his corespondents in the two murder cases.

Prosecutor General Benedicto Malcontento said the team set the hearings for November 23 and December 5.

Rocky Thomas Balisong, counsel for Bantag, has said he will submit Bantag's counteraffidavit after they get a copy of the subpoena.

Also on Monday, the PNP said it will look into Bantag's claim that the real brains in the killing of Mabasa is a convict named German Agojo.

PNP spokesman Col. Jean Fajardo said in a television interview that the PNP, the DoJ and the Department of the

Interior and Local Government want to probe every angle in the Mabasa and Villamor cases.

Bantag has said Agojo is the one that has close connections with Villamor and Escorial.

He said Agojo, Villamor and Escorial were involved in the killing of a judge in Tagaytay City, with Agojo acting as the group's ringleader.

The DoJ earlier said that Bantag's allegations were motivated by a "misguided sense of betrayal" when he was implicated as the mastermind in the Mabasa and Villamor killings. g

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

LACMTA will receive proposals for PS96972SHAREPOINT, AZURE, AND ONESPAN DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT SERVICES at the Floor Receptionist Desk, Vendor/Contract Management Department, One Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

A Pre-Proposal conference will not be held. This project is a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Set Aside contract. To participate in this RFP, proposers must be SBE certified with LACMTA prior to proposal due date. For information on the Set-Aside Program, visit: httos://business. metro.net/VendorPortal/faces/ homel /certifications.

All proposals must be received on or before 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Monday, November 28, 2022 at the

address listed above, sent to the attention of Annie Duong. Proposals received later than the above date and time will be rejected and returned to the proposer unopened.

For a copy of the Proposal/Bid specification visit our Solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at httos://business.metro.net or for further information email Annie Duong at duonga2@metro.net 11/16/22

CNS-3642972#

ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

We’ll take it.*

DND Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. ManilaTimes.net file photo

Ian’s return to action comes at a ‘perfect’ time

By Nathalie tomada Philstar.com

“It’s called One Good Day because my character lives a gangster lifestyle, he’s a good businessman, he’s been through a lot but he wants out. He no longer wants to continue that life and all he wants is this one good, peaceful day. But in order to get there, he has to get through so much violence as the past catches up with him. That’s his end goal,” the lead star said during a recent virtual roundtable interview.

One Good Day marks Ian’s return to the action genre. He starred in his first action film when he was only 15 and led around 25 action movies before he became one of the country’s favorite romantic leading men. Some of his best-known actioners are Zaldong Tisoy, Halang Ang Bituka, Sgt. Bobby Aguilar: Isa Lang Ang Buhay Mo, Ben Balasador: Akin ang Huling Alas, Bastardo, Armadong Hudas and Totoy Hitman.

“When this was pitched to me, I was immediately interested, of course. (Action is) my homecourt. I felt very comfortable because I love martial arts, guns, motorcycles and stuff that we need to show (in series),” said Ian, who executed all the stunt work himself.

Hard to believe but the veteran actor is 47, but he certainly doesn’t feel his age.

“I do all the stuff... kaya ko pa naman magpasagasa sa kotse hahaha! OK pa. Even in sports, I play basketball, football, badminton. OK pa. Wala pa akong physical limitations (in terms of) hindi nagagawa ngayon na nagagawa in my 20s. Wala pa naman! Hindi pa lumalabas hahaha,” said Ian, who added that as an actor, his role in One Good Day is complex because “internal chaos and order are happening to him. And he has to be a good person, at the same time, he has violent tendencies. So masarap siya laruin as a character.”

His action comeback comes at a perfect time thanks to the wonders of technology.

“(Now) it’s possible to do many shots that were impossible before. Because

before, when we used to do films, we only had 400 feet of film. Now, we can do one whole scene with one flow,” he compared the differences of action films then and now. “If before you need a helicopter, now drone lang pwede na. So ang daming options — even in low-light conditions. Ibang-iba talaga ngayon and we had to utilize that.”

Direk Lester did a good job of maximizing those aspects, from the non-linear storytelling to the colored grading to the image and sound quality. We used really good lenses. The camera setups, medyo hindi siya usually ginagamit locally. So, our plan also is to show a different side as direk Lester and I share (the mindset) that we’re so proud of the Filipino talent.

“Hopefully, it opens doors Continued on Page 10

Angeline wishes to wed at Quiapo Church

By ChristiNa alPad ManilaTimes.net

Quinto

“Sa Quiapo church po kasi marami po akong kaibigang pari doon. Saka deboto din si Nonrev ng Nazareno,” she said. (At Quiapo church because

She

While in the US for the “10Q” concert with Bugoy Drilon, Michael Pangilinan and Daryl Ong, Quinto revealed that she met the family of her boyfriend.

“’Yung mommy niya nandoon. Galing silang Virginia. Hindi natuloy ‘yung show namin sa Virginia. Tinatanong nila kung kailan ang kasal. Siyempre hindi ko rin po alam kasi marami rin po akong trabaho. Nagtatanong na rin sila kung kailan ang kasal after ng binyag ni Sylvio,” Quinto related. (His mom was there. They came from Virginia. Our show in Virginia did not push through. They were asking when the wedding is happening. Of course, I don’t know because I have a lot of work. They were asking when the wedding is happening after the christening of baby Sylvio)

Busy as she is being the mentor of “Dream Maker”, a reality-based show featuring 62 aspirants, Quinto also wished to bring her nonshowbiz partner and their baby Sylvio with her in

her concerts abroad.

Motherhood has made Quinto realized the things she can do for her baby.

“Napakarami ko palang kayang gawin. Ngayon, ako ang gumagawa ng gawaing bahay. Mas gusto ko na hands-on ako kay Sylvio. Bago ako mag-concert ay pagod na pagod ako. Ako ang nagpakain kay Sylvio kasi ito ‘yung first time na puwede na siya sa solid food. Ayokong ma-miss ang ganoong milestone ng anak ko,” she said. (I discovered I can do many things. Now, I am the one doing household chores. I want to be handson to Sylvio. Before I did this concert, I was so tired. I fed Sylvio because this is the first time that he can eat solid food. I don’t want to miss that milestone in my son.)

Ciara is one proud mom

By aNNe Pasajol Inquirer.net

The actress showed moments from when Crixus and his teammates from Arayat Football Club accepted the trophy and medals, through her Instagram page on Sunday, Nov. 13. In a separate post, Sotto congratulated her fellow parents for their children’s achievement.

“My Champ! Congratulations Crixus! I’m so proud of you!” she wrote in her post.

Earlier this month, Sotto also expressed gratitude after her son and his team represented the country in the Singacup, the kid’s first international football tournament which was held in Singapore.

“We praise You, God, for this experience!” Sotto stated. “This is the first international tournament of Crixus and I am so proud that he and his teammates gave their all and did their best, even if they were the youngest team on the pitch.”

Ciara’s family including her siblings and dad Tito Sotto were also present to watch Crixus’ games in Singapore, as seen on her Instagram post on Nov. 9.

Crixus is Ciara’s son with ex-husband, film

Kylie hails improving mental health landscape in the Philippines

By armiN P. adiNa Inquirer.net

WHEN 2016 Miss International Kylie Verzosa joined the Binibining Pilipinas pageant, she highlighted an advocacy that very few people were familiar with at that time, which is mental health awareness. Now, many aspirants have adopted the same cause.

“Over the past few years, I believe it has been improving, especially with the youth today. They accept depression and it’s widely spoken about. Anxiety is widely spoken about by the youth,” Verzosa said at the sidelines of her launch program as calendar girl for 2023 of a liquor brand, held at the Cities Events Place in Quezon City on Nov. 10.

She shared that when the pageant’s screening committee members quizzed her about her advocacy, she said, “My daddy told me, ‘I think it’s mental health, what you want to talk about. You want to talk about depression and anxiety.’ I also opened up about my mental health bout, about depression and anxiety awareness.”

Verzosa also said it elates her to see that so many women and beauty queens are speaking up about mental health now. “I’m glad that the youth has the courage to talk

about mental health, and more parents are opening up and are more aware of the things that can happen to their sons or daughters, so there is now a deeper understanding of mental health,” she continued.

She also revealed that it was the reason she partly dedicated her recent award to “mental health warriors,” and her advocacy Mental Health Matters, in the speech she delivered when she accepted the “Philippine Actress of the Year” award at the Distinctive International Arab Festival Awards (DIAFA) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, last week for her movie “The Housemaid.”

The final stretch of 2022 has

been explosive for the sultry siren, as two of her big dreams have been fulfilled–getting recognized as an actress and being a calendar girl.

“I’m really grateful for all the blessings coming my way,” Verzosa said. “I’m really thankful for (brand) and my team for making this all happen. Oh my goodness, it feels so good, it feels so great. Seeing the photos, you know, for the first time, is it really me?”

Verzosa is also looking forward to 2023. “They say you reap the fruits of your labor, so I’m hoping for an even better year next year. But for this year, I am so, so grateful,” she said.

In the action series One Good Day, Ian Veneracion plays a gangster who wants to walk away from the gang life. Photo from Instagram/@

Kylie Verzosa

Inquirer.net photo

IN Lester Pimentel Ong’s action series One Good Day, Ian Veneracion plays a gangster who wants to walk away from the gang life.

Angeline Quinto Photo from Instagram/@

SINGER Angeline Quinto said that she wanted to be wed at the Quiapo Church, being a devotee of the Black Nazarene.

revealed this after her “10Q” concert at the Resorts World on Saturday, November 12. The singer is engaged to her non-showbiz boyfriend, Nonrev Daquina, with whom she has already a child named Sylvio.

I have may priest friend there. Also Nonrev is also a devotee of the black Nazarene.)

also said she wants her mentor Regine Velasquez and Sarah Geronimo to sing at her wedding.

Ciara Sotto and her son Crixus

Photo from Instagram/@pinaypole

CIARA Sotto could not help but feel proud as her son Crixus and his team won in the recently-held Youth Football League.

executive Jojo Oconer. The former couple separated in 2016, and their marriage was annulled in 2019.

Pahrump seeing increased interest from commercial developers

By RealtoR Fely Quitevis-Bateman

PAHRUMP, a town located 62 miles west of Las Vegas, is seeing increased interest from commercial developers.

According to an article earlier this year in the Pahrump Valley Times, Nye County Planning Director Brett Waggoner told the county’s commissioners that the planning department has received a lot of applications that are in the review or site development process for commercial development. Some, he said, are getting to the approval stage, and are actually starting to break ground.

Among the projects Waggoner mentioned that are in the pipeline for the town included a medical facility, a car wash, restaurants, gas stations and overnight accommodations.

Two much-anticipated chains coming to Pahrump, the Arby’s and Dutch Bros. Coffee locations, as well as a car wash, will be located on Highway 160, near the area of Nye County Veterinary Clinic and Tire Works, the article mentioned.

A new medical facility, the Pahrump Community Health Center, had a recent groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of construction. The facility will, when it opens, provide surgical services and specialist care in the area which is not yet available.

The gas stations in the pipeline include a Circle K on Homestead and Gamebird Roads, and a new Coyote Corner on Manse Road near the Mountain Falls Subdivision. The latter project, according to Waggoner, will have space for restaurants as well.

The proposed hotel, meanwhile, is located

on Highway 160 just behind the Maverick gas station and directly across The Source, which is a marijuana dispensary that opened recently.

The chief planner of Nye County also talked about the developments going on at Spring Mountain Motor Resort, where the track portion of its expansion onto the property purchased from the Bureau of Land Management has been completed. He said added that the resort is now in the process of building accessory buildings to accommodate the track.

Waggoner disclosed in the article that his department maintains a close-lipped policy when it comes to potential projects in the valley, opting only to discuss potential projects when development officially begins. His office is always in discussions with prospective developers.

Certainly, the town of Pahrump has undergone major changes since it was established and slowly inhabited by settlers in the late 19th century.

Nowadays, there are a lot more things to do and explore around the town, including trips to local casinos, recreational activities, do some shopping at local stores and even visit the Pahrump Valley Museum to check out the town’s fascinating history.

If nature-tripping is your favorite activity, birdwatching is an option at Discovery Park, which is an abandoned golf course converted by locals and the Red Rock Audobon into a park. Over 176 bird species are said to graze in the park. Hiking in the area’s famous trails, whether on foot or via ATV, mountain bikes or off-road vehicles is another option for those seeking to commune and/or experience nature.

It won’t be Nevada unless you visit the town’s gambling dens, which includes Lakeside Casino & RV Park, Gold Town Casino (formerly Terrible’s Town Casino), Pahrump Nugget and Saddle West Hotel. Each of these places have their own amenities and charms, and provides accommodations and entertainment for the weary traveler or excited tourist.

You can also ride a horse at the Happy Hoof Beats Equestrian, play golf at Mountain Falls Golf Club, drive a race car at Spring Mountain Motor Resort and Country Club, ride a hot air balloon over the valley, or enjoy a bottle of fine wine at Pahrump Valley Winery.

By the way, at Spring Mountain Motor Resort and Country Club, crossing off race car driving in your to-do list is not the only thing it offers. The place also is where one can indulge in a variety of watersports (swimming, wakeboarding, kayaking, paddle boarding, water jetpack), practical shooting and racquetball, in addition to its top-notch food and clubhouse facilities/amenities.

Residents themselves have even organized sports and recreational groups to bond together and enjoy the town’s vast natural beauty. These include walking/hiking groups and biking clubs, as well as bowling clubs/leagues, billiards groups and indoor swimming clubs, to name a few.

There is a lot more than meets the eye in Pahrump. Both visitors and residents have a lot of activities to indulge in. And with Las Vegas only about an hour or less away, the possibilities for fun

and excitement increase exponentially.

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

I have been a Realtor for many decades now and have seen the growth of Pahrump. I consider it one of the best towns to live in. With many residential and commercial developments coming into the area, and many planned projects that will

add to the diversity of the town’s entertainment offerings, it truly is a good place to look for a home, an investment property or a piece of land that you may want to construct your dream home in or sell for a profit later.

My company, Precious Properties, is a fullservice company that has served its clientele since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805559-2476 and 702-538-4948 for more information, or send me an email at fely@precious-properties. com or fely.precious@gmail.com. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days. (Advertising Supplement)

The Coyote Corner gas station near the entrance to Mountain Falls Subdivision, where the late President Fidel V. Ramos played golf during his stay with Realtor Fely Quitevis-

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (right) with CEO Mark Maiyoka who just bought a $2.6M medical building in Pahrump.

Construction is ongoing at the second Circle K gas station outlet in the town.

The Source, a newly-opened cannabis dispensary in Pahrump. Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (extreme left) with (from left) Nye County Chief Planner Brett Waggoner and newly-elected Commissioner Ronald Boskovich.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman helps those who need business financing, including loans for small businesses. For more information, call (702) 538-4948, or send email to fely@ precious-properties.com or fely.precious@gmail.com.

Billy Crawford wins French ‘Dancing With The Stars’

By Kathleen a llemit Philstar.com

His wife, actress Coleen Garcia, broke the news Saturday, November 12 on Instagram.

“Words cannot express how PROUD I am of you, my love! Not just for WINNING this difficult competition, but for growing into the person you have become: a kind, humble man who works hard, dreams big for his family, shoots for the stars and makes sure to lift as many people up with him along the way,” wrote Coleen.

She said that he amazes her every time and that her son is lucky to have Billy as his father.

“You amaze me every time. I love you, and I’m SO HAPPY for you! You deserve all of this and more,” Coleen ended her post.

Billy replied by expressing his disbelief and declaring his love for Coleen.

“I can’t believe it! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH and thank you soooooooooooo much for just EVERYTHING,” the host wrote.

Billy and Fauve joined the 12th season of the reality TV dance competition that originated

Celebrity dads Gary Valenciano and Chito Miranda talk about investing in love

TRUE love takes time and effort to grow. Celebrity dads

Gary Valenciano and Chito Miranda say their definitions of love and commitment have changed through the years. For them, love also means keeping your loved ones protected from any eventuality. This is why they were chosen by AIA Philippines and BPI AIA to encourage more Filipinos to express their love both in words and in actions.

Filipino fans can find videos of their music idols talking about love.

“Love always changes just as situations and circumstances change. Outlooks and perspectives change too. Even in marriage, change and vows are tested through years of being together. It’s only here where you see what unconditional love is all about. The challenges and tests are meant to deepen and broaden what love means to any individual,” says Gary.

Chito shares, “Love, for me, changed, not only in definition, but also how it felt, when I became a husband and a dad. Before, it simply meant being attached to someone

emotionally. Now, it means, prioritizing someone else’s happiness, and overall wellbeing above one’s self, and being happy with it.”

Safe and Sound

The pandemic gave rise to many life realizations. For Gary, it was the importance of treasuring the moments you have with

your loved ones. “It was a time none of us had ever experienced before. We hardly saw each other in 2020! It wasn’t easy how life became for my children. I knew they were struggling, but during the pandemic there was only so much that any parent like myself could do.”

He says he also now values his audiences more. “The pandemic has been the link that sort of bonds us as it was that one event that hit us all in ways we would never have expected. Cherishing time together is so important.” It also made him feel the grace and goodness of God, who kept him and his family safe and provided for.

Chito says his priorities were reshuffled during the pandemic. “I gained a much deeper understanding of what really matters in life, and what my priorities should be. My family’s health and safety have always been my priority, but the pandemic showed me how I should properly prepare to secure their health and safety, and how important it is to spend time with family, and to focus on things that we often took for granted.” (Inquirer. net)

Vilma regains positive ‘aura’ after bout with long COVID

By anne Pasajol Inquirer.net

VETERAN actress Vilma Santos appeared to be recovering well from the effects of her bout with COVID-19 as she regained her lively self during her recent birthday celebration.

The Star for All Seasons earlier claimed that she was suffering from prolonged symptoms of coronavirus, or “long COVID”, wherein the patient may experience a wide range of condition long after infection. It usually lasts more than four months, though there are instances where symptoms come back.

Santos, who turned a year older last Nov. 3, hosted an intimate gathering for the occasion, as seen in a vlog on her YouTube channel last Friday, Nov. 11.

The event was attended by friends and loved ones, including Santos’ son, actor-TV host Luis Manzano, and his wife Jessy Mendiola, who were both delighted after seeing Santos finally get over her malaise.

“Kasi lately may pinagdaanan si Momski… [kaya] ang sasabihin ko is

I’m proud of you dahil ang pinagdaanan mong ‘yon — hindi man naging madali — ay nalagpasan mo,” Manzano said, addressing his mom.

(Because Momski went through something lately so I want to say that I’m proud of you because even if it was not easy, you overcame it.)

“Keep going lang Momski,” Mendiola continued.

“Kasi talagang iba ‘yung aura niya ngayon, ang ganda.

Ang layo do’n sa — kasi may pinagdaanan si Momski, ‘yung sinasabing long COVID. Ngayong nakita namin siya ulit, sobrang iba na ‘yung aura niya.”

(Just keep on going, Momski. Her aura is really different now, it’s pleasing. It’s far from — because Momski went through something, long COVID. Now that we got to see her, her aura really changed.)

The couple also expressed excitement in welcoming their child who they call Peanut and whose presence would be their gift to Santos.

“We are very happy and ngayon pa lang, super blessed ni Peanut na magkakaroon siya ng grandmama na tulad

po ninyo, Momski,” Mendiola said. (We are very happy and as early as now, Peanut is very blesses to have a grandmother like you, Momski.)

“Ang wish ko naman kay Momski, as always, long and healthy life pero ngayon kapag sinasabi kong long life [ay] dahil may parating na bagong blessing sa pamilya — para matagal niyang makasama ang ating Peanut,” Manzano stated.

(My wish for Momski, as always, is for her to have a long and healthy life. But now, I wish for her to have a long life because a new blessing will be added to the family — so she can be with Peanut for a long time.)

Santos’ husband, Batangas 6th district Rep. Ralph Recto, and their son Ryan also greeted the veteran actress and sent their birthday messages through her vlog. Santos disclosed her condition last Nov. 2 as she explained her recent absence from social media. At the time, Santos was still experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19, such as asthma attacks, fluctuating blood pressure and headaches.

Ian’s return to action comes...

From Page 8

not just for us… and makes them aware na kaya din pala natin ang ganitong action, that we really have good stuntmen, actors and cinematographers and so forth. We’re hoping for good viewership so we can do Season 2 and Season 3 and so on.”

According to Ian, One Good Day also aims to present another side to the Philippines itself as it premieres on the international streaming platform Prime Video on Nov. 17.

“The basis for the storytelling is because foreigners know us … ‘pag sinabi Philippines, na- imagine kaagad nila poor communities and stuff. Eto ang gusto ni direk Lester Pimentel, look, ipakita yung other side of the Philippines, yung old rich, farm (views), modern architecture,” Ian said.

“ Nakakatuwa kasi ‘di lang Philippines market natin. Gusto natin mapanood sa Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore. Yung fight director na kinuha natin is based in Singapore. So lumilipad siya dito for fight scenes and all. So marami tayong kababayan makakapanood and hopefully, hindi lang Filipino and makita nila more of the other side, not the street view of the Philippines, of our culture.”

The production shot in Iloilo for five weeks. “Every day we shot there, the people were so excited because usually nag-shu- shoot in Bacolod, in Cebu. And it was the first time nag -shoot sa Iloilo and a lot of businesses were like, oh you can shoot at our bar, our house, or whatever. The local government also was very supportive and we felt the excitement of everyone there.”

This new project marks a milestone as well

as Ian is celebrating his 40th year in show business.

At this point of his career, how does he pick his next projects? “Nothing in particular, really. For me, my concern now is working with the right people. Good vibes. That’s more important to me now unlike before, (I was like) dream ko makatrabaho si ganito. If nakatrabaho mo na lahat mong gusto katrabaho, (then you start thinking) dream ko magkaganitong role,” Ian said.

“ Pero yun nga, sa tagal ko sa industry ngayon , I am more focused on the enjoyment of working with the right people, with whom you have the same passion, mindset and same effort in pursuing to upgrade the quality of what you’re doing. Kesa napakagaling pero bad vibes naman.”

The STAR also asked how it felt to be still enjoying leading man status after four decades, Ian admitted, “It’s so surprising, I never would have thought I’d be busier now than before. Kasi nga I was resigned to the fact that when you’re past your prime, what’s next? When you’re a father in real life, you have father roles. When you’re a lolo in real life, you have lolo roles and stuff. I’m so OK with that and I have accepted that.

“But strangely, meron parang biglang people are just supportive of the things that I do. I’ve gone into music for example and people have been very supportive whether it’s a TV show, art exhibit or a concert… I’m just really grateful because everyone has been so kind. People from the industry, especially strangers, people I’ve never met, support my projects.”

Host Billy Crawford with his dance partner Fauve Hautot win the 12th season of “Danse avec le stars,” the French version of the popular reality dance competition “Dancing With The Stars.”

Photo from Instagram/@billydrawford

Photos screengrabed from YouTube/Vilma Santos-

HOST Billy Crawford still cannot believe that he and his dance partner Fauve Hautot won the latest edition of “Danse avec les stars,” the French version of the popular reality TV dance competition “Dancing With The Stars.”

from the British show “Strictly Come Dancing.” The show’s format is exported in other countries and licensed under the name “Dancing With The Stars.”

Love changes, according to Gary Valenciano.

Chito Miranda shares his thoughts on love and commitment.

Divest early

Earmark those special high quality items that you have enjoyed but have no use for anymore and carefully consider giving to people in your immediate or even far-flung orbit who might appreciate it and use it and perhaps even remember you from time to time.

THIS

You have become a collector over the years. Memories, good and bad, you have them, by the bucketful, stacked in yellowing photographs in frayed and tattered albums.

You used to dutifully collect them, way back when printed photos were the norm. But now you have them in your phones, in your computers, in USB drives and external hard drives in gigabytes of digital images. Somehow you long for the printed ones. These are important specially when the neurons in our brains begin to malfunction as a natural order of aging. These will become mental crutches as our memories fade.

We became collectors of stuff as well. Admit it. There’s the spirit of a pack rat lurking in most of us. We load ourselves with stuff. Society encourages us. Witness the success of Costco and those warehouses. We buy as much or more than we really need or, in many cases, can really afford to pay in cash.

So we have far more stuff than we need: clothes, shoes, furniture, linen, décor, technology, gizmos and gadgets and collectibles of all sorts like baseball cards, guns, antiques, books, kitchen ware, cars and whatever else one thinks is valuable to collect. So our apartments, homes and garages are bursting at the seams that we even feel the need to rent public storage spaces.

Here’s a thought that may well be worth considering as we try to TRAVEL LIGHT during this segment of our life’s journey. We have been taught to invest early in real estate or in financial instruments so we can reap the benefits of investments over time in our retirement years. This is wise counsel for all and it pays to take heed. Keep resources liquid. But when it comes to stuff, you become a contrarian and do the reverse instead.

Divest early

It might be that dainty English porcelain teacup set you bought in an antique shop on a whim that you have on display for decades in your china cabinet. Give it to someone who enjoys taking tea. Or it could be a piece of antique heirloom jewelry that you can give to an appreciative relative or friend or just an acquaintance. Or how about giving away piece by piece your collection of designer bags hidden away in your closet, forgotten and unused?

Okay, here’s the key. Divest wisely and choose recipients well. Give it to someone who can and will use it and not stash it away forgotten once more.

In short, filter out those whom you know have too much of everything and will likely shrug off the value of your gift.

In short, don’t give to ingrates and spoiled brats. It is a hit and miss but you will eventually develop the instinct to find the deserving ones.

It is a way of paying forward for all the blessings we have received even if sometimes we didn’t deserve any of it. The payback is that you get to see the smiles and the genuine appreciation from the recipients while you are still around. The circle of use for that special item begins to have a ripple effect of good over time.

In divesting ourselves of it, we clear the space it once occupied as the blessing of that special item moves to another. We will feel lighter too. Guaranteed. There is beauty and poetry in an empty space.

Our space is limited and so is our time on earth. How we use these can define the remaining segment of our life’s journey.

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. *

THE decision to terminate one’s marriage typically brings to the forefront many issues all at once. Issues pertaining to property, support, and child custody need to be addressed in a divorce proceeding. In a long term marriage especially, these issues are often heavily litigated between the spouses, and can take a significant amount of time to resolve.

Frequently, a spouse would like to “move on,” and reattain single status as soon as possible, but has a perception that to become divorced, issues concerning property, support, and child custody first need to be resolved. Many erroneously believe that getting a divorce prior to resolution of property, support, and custody issues is like putting the “carriage before the horse”— an impossibility.

Under the Family Code, a spouse can “bifurcate” the issue of marital status and terminate the marriage without having to wait until the issues pertaining to property, support, and child custody are resolved.

A judgment dissolving the marriage need not resolve all issues raised in the divorce

Motion for bifurcation, status only dissolution for spouses who want to move on while divorce pending

petition. If there are issues set forth in the petition with regard to property, support, and custody, the Court may nonetheless separate the issue of dissolution of marriage status and grant an early trial on that issue (a “status only” judgment). Obtaining a “status only” judgment is most beneficial to those persons who want his or her marriage terminated as soon as possible.

Through a “status only” judgment, a person is restored to single status more quickly, enabling a person to remarry even if other issues concerning the marriage have yet to be resolved.

It is important to note, however, that a judgment terminating the marriage itself also brings with it the consequence of terminating rights associated with marriage. To address the foregoing, the Court may impose conditions on a “status only” judgment, to preserve rights which normally would exist if an early dissolution of marriage status were not granted. These conditions are contained in Family Code Section 2337. The

Court may require a spouse seeking early dissolution of marriage status to do any of the following, all designed to protect the interests of the spouse who is not seeking early dissolution: 1) indemnify the other spouse for adverse tax consequences resulting from the early termination of marital status, 2) maintain the other spouse on existing health insurance, 3) indemnifying the other spouse from loss of rights to a probate homestead or probate family allowance, 4) indemnify the other spouse for loss of benefits under employee benefit plans, 5) joinder of an employee benefit plan, and 6) any other condition that the court determines is just and equitable.

With a “status only” judgment, the Court reserves jurisdiction to adjudicate any other issues concerning the marriage, including division of property, award of support, and custody issues. Accordingly, if you would like to obtain a “status only” judgment, and resolve any other issues pertaining to the marriage later, it is advised that you consult

with an experienced attorney.

* * *

Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice.  The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you.  This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation.

* * * Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com. Visit our website at kenreyeslaw.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes

Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya writes for Asian Journal. Email monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com for comments.

is culled out from the series, “The Bucket List” written in 2018.

“…You won’t need a U-Haul truck when you pass. Jesus did say it is harder for a rich man to get into heaven than for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle…”