111823 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

NOVEMBER 18-21, 2023 Volume 33 - No. 92 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Study: Filipino adults among those likely to suffer from high blood pressure

US renews vow to defend PH amid China aggression in disputed sea

by MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN, ALEXIS ROMERO Philstar.com

JUST when we thought a few cups of extra SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. on Thursday, November rice over our adobo or curries wouldn’t hurt 16 reaffirmed commitment to its treaty obligations our health, well, think again. A new study to the Philippines, saying it stands “shoulder-toreveals that Filipinos and Indians are among shoulder” in defending its ally’s sovereign rights in the Asian American groups at higher risk for high blood pressure.

Given that six to seven percent of the U.S. population make up 24 million Asian Americans, research on cardiovascular diseases and their risks to this group are often overlooked.

Apparently, some researchers came up with this new study using data from the 13 million Asian adults who participated in the National Health Interview Survey from 2013 to 2018.

Dividing the data into four groups—Chinese, Filipino, Indian, and other Asian descent—the researchers found that Filipinos are at higher risk of having high blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes than the Chinese.

Findings were presented at the American

the South China Sea, which are being challenged by China’s aggressive maneuvers in the disputed waters.

In their meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, President Marcos and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris reaffirmed the strength of the alliance between their countries and discussed ongoing efforts to deepen

Romualdez: ‘Successful’ Marcos-Harris meeting proves strong US-PH bond

by GABRIEL PABICO LALU Inquirer.net

 PAGE A2

Beyond insulin: Medi-Cal expands patient access to diabetes supplies LOS ANGELES — June Voros sprang from her couch as a high-pitched beep warned her that she needed a quick dose of sugar.

Her blood sugar was plummeting, and the beep came from a continuous glucose monitor attached to her abdomen. The small but powerful device alerts Voros when her blood sugar is dangerously high or low.

“My blood sugar is at 64. It’s too low and still dropping,” Voros, 32, said on a bright October afternoon. She checks the monitor up to 80 times a day to help prevent complications from Type 1 diabetes.

But the monitor means little without the supplies that make it work, including a receiver, a sensor, and a transmitter — some of which must be replaced every 10 to 30 days. Voros also has an insulin pump, which delivers a steady supply of that hormone to her body, and it requires supplies too.

Until recently, Voros — who is covered

by Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program for people with low incomes or disabilities — spent countless hours on the phone with her endocrinologists, her Medi-Cal insurer Health Net, and a medical supply company to obtain separate approvals for each item.  PAGE A3

security ties and expand commercial and economic cooperation, according to a White House statement.

“The Vice President reiterated (that) the United States stands shoulder-to-shoulder in defending the Philippines’ sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the South China Sea and reaffirmed the United  PAGE A2

SIDELINE. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris meet on Wednesday, November 15 on the sidelines of the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit in San Francisco, California. Key issues during the bilateral talk included the West Philippine Sea and reaffirmation of commitment to a rules-based approach to the sea dispute.

Malacañang photo

MANILA — Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said the meeting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and United States Vice President Kamala Harris in San Francisco was “successful,” proving the lasting stability of Manila-Washington ties.

Roumaldez disclosed that key issues during the bilateral talk include the West Philippine Sea and reaffirmation of commitment to a rules-based approach to the sea dispute.

Marcos and Harris met on Wednesday, November 15 on the sidelines of the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in San Francisco, California.

“The successful bilateral meeting between President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris [is] a testament to the enduring strength of the alliance between the United States and the Philippines,” Romualdez said in a statement.

 PAGE A2

Marcos, Xi meet to ease sea row

by CATHERINE S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday, November 17 said that he will meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping to discuss ways to defuse tensions in the West Philippine Sea. The meeting is scheduled a day after Marcos held talks with United States Vice President Kamala Harris at the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in San Francisco, California.

In a video released to reporters, Marcos said he and Harris touched on the Philippine assessment of the situation in the West Philippine Sea, which is part of the South China Sea, the vast waterway that China

claims as its own.

Harris "was very interested to know what our assessment was on the situation in the West Philippine Sea, and I just went through the narrative of ... what had happened in the past few months," the President said.

"And we tried to discuss some of the ways forward, and I think that generally speaking, especially after my meeting with President Xi, which I'm going to have some time today. After that, we will put together the ways forward," he said.

The President stressed that the APEC SUMMIT. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and fellow leaders of the Asia-Pacific Philippines continuously tries to maintain Economic Cooperation (APEC) gather for a photo session on Thursday, November 16. the peace in the region with the help of Malacañang photo the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine  PAGE A2

PH, US sign landmark ‘123 De Lima tells former President Duterte: ‘It’s reckoning time’ agreement’ on nuclear energy

by ZEUS LEGASPI Inquirer.net

MANILA – “It’s reckoning time.”

These are the words uttered by former Senator Leila De Lima to her “persecutors.”

De Lima, who was released on bail on Monday, November 13, told former president Rodrigo Duterte on Friday, November 16 to “just face the music.”

Her remarks come as she gears for the filing of charges against him and other persons Former Senator Leila de Lima and Senator Risa Hontiveros during a presscon at Novotel behind her detention.

“We all know about you being after being granted bail by the Muntinlupa RTC on Monday, November 13.

Inquirer.net photo by Noy Morcoso behind those killings (war on

drugs). We all know about you being behind my persecution,” she said.

De Lima gave these responses when asked for a message to Duterte during a live interview with INQside Look.

She is almost certain that she will sue the former Chief Executive.

She is just studying the details of the cases against him.

“It’s only a matter of determining what would be the proper timeline for that, and what would be the proper courses of action, or the exact cases to be filed against him and  PAGE A4

by NESTOR CORRALES Inquirer.net

SAN FRANCISCO — The Philippines on Thursday, Novemer 16 signed the breakthrough “123 agreement” on nuclear energy cooperation with the United States.

The 123 agreement or the “peaceful nuclear cooperation agreement” provides the legal basis for allowing American companies to export nuclear fuel, reactors, equipment, and other specialized nuclear materials to the Philippines.

The U.S. has 23 civil nuclear agreements with other

countries, including Russia, China, Canada, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Japan, Taiwan, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the pact on the sidelines of the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation Summit.

In his speech, he said the agreement would ensure a “more energy secure and green Philippines,” adding that he was optimistic that nuclear energy would become part of the Philippine energy mix by 2032.

“We would be more than  PAGE A2

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FROM THE FRONT PAGE

US renews vow to defend PH...

PAGE A1 States’ defense commitment to the Philippines under Article IV of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty,” it said.

The White House said Harris underscored that an armed attack on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea, would invoke U.S. mutual defense commitments. The two leaders also reiterated their shared commitment to upholding international rules and norms, including in the South China Sea, it added.

Malacañang has not issued a statement on the meeting as of Thursday.

Broader economic ties Marcos and Harris also talked about strengthening and broadening economic cooperation bilaterally and through the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, according to the White House.

The two leaders welcomed the conclusion of a historic “123” civil nuclear cooperation agreement, which is seen to deepen their countries’ partnership to build a global clean energy economy, strengthen their shared commitment to improving energy security and advance the global non-proliferation regime.

Harris announced the launch of the “123” agreement talks while in Manila in November 2022. Manila and Washington are set to sign the landmark agreement today.

Harris also announced a new

partnership with the Philippines to grow and diversify the global semiconductor ecosystem under the International Technology Security and Innovation Fund, created by the CHIPS Act of 2022. The White House said the partnership would help create a “more resilient, secure, and sustainable global semiconductor value chain.”

It was the fifth meeting between Marcos and Harris. The two leaders met in Manila in November 2022, at the Naval Observatory in Washington in May 2023; on the margins of the East Asia Summit in Jakarta in September 2023, and in a trilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Jakarta also in September this year.

Joint statement Meeting on the sidelines of the ongoing ASEAN Defense Minister’s Meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III issued a statement jointly denouncing China’s continuing harassment of Philippine resupply vessels to the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Both discussed the importance of preserving the rights of all nations to fly, sail and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows.

During the meeting, Austin reiterated U.S. President Joe Biden’s message that the U.S. defense commitment to the Philippines is

ironclad.

Teodoro and Austin also emphasized that the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling is final and binding on the parties and called on China to abide by its obligations under international law.

Both likewise reaffirmed that the Mutual Defense Treaty extends to both countries’ armed forces, public vessels and aircraft— including those of its Coast Guard—anywhere in the Pacific, to include the South China Sea. Ayungin resupply The Philippines is standing pat with its position that it does not need to notify China each time the country conducts resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal, over which the Philippines has sovereign rights and jurisdiction.

“We are being asked to give prior notification each time we conduct a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal. We will not do so. The resupply missions are legitimate activities within our EEZ, in accordance with international law,” Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said in a statement.

Daza stated that the resupply mission to and the upkeep of the BRP Sierra Madre are legitimate Philippine government activities in the country’s exclusive economic zone, in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. (With reports from Pia Lee-Brago)

NAT’L RICE AWARENESS MONTH. A student of the Salawag National High School learns how to harvest rice at the Rice Garden in Manila on Friday, Nov. 17. This is in line with the celebration of National Rice Awareness Month every November, which aims to raise public awareness of the importance of healthier forms of rice that are locally produced.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

PH, US sign landmark ‘123 agreement’ on...

PAGE A1

happy to pursue this path with the United States as one of our partners,” he told Blinken and other US officials, saying he was looking forward “to seeing this agreement in action in the years to come.”

According to Marcos, nuclear energy is one area where where the Philippines and U.S. could show that the alliance and partnership “truly works – for our peoples, our economies, “U.S. investments into the and the environment.”

He recalled that during semiconductor sector will create more jobs for our people, his first State of the Nation generate considerable revenue for the government, and advance our capabilities with the transfer of technology through such partnership,” Romualdez pointed PAGE A1 out. military, and the entire Aside from attending the government.

Apec Leader Summit in San He said he would sound out Francisco, Marcos’ weeklong Xi on what can be done "to trip in the U.S. also included bring down the temperature, to working visits to Los Angeles not escalate the situation in the (LA) and Hawaii. In LA, he is West Philippine Sea." expected to lead a Philippine Marcos said he and Xi will economic briefing and meet try to "strategize for the near with top U.S. companies, while future on what the Philippines' in Honolulu, he is anticipated to role will be or what is the proper visit the Indo-Pacific Command Philippines' role in the West headquarters.  Philippine Sea." The Philippines and China have had sharp exchanges over efforts by the China Coast Guard and maritime militia to block Philippine missions to deliver supplies to the Filipino soldiers stationed in Ayungin Shoal, which is well within Manila's exclusive economic zone.

Beijing claims that the supply missions were intruding into Chinese waters.

During their meeting, Marcos and Harris "reaffirmed the strength of the alliance between the United States and the Philippines and discussed ongoing efforts to deepen our security ties and expand commercial and economic cooperation," a statement posted on the White House website read.

They also "reiterated their shared commitment to upholding international rules and norms, including in the South China Sea," the White House said.

"The vice president reiterated the United States stands shoulder-to-shoulder in defending the Philippines' sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the South China Sea and reaffirmed the United States' defense commitment to the Philippines under Article IV of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," the

Romualdez: ‘Successful’ Marcos-Harris meeting...

PAGE A1

“Of paramount importance is the reaffirmation during their meeting of our shared commitment to upholding international rules and norms, particularly in the South China Sea,” he added.

Romualdez said that Marcos and Harris likewise discussed commercial and economic cooperation expansion.

“Pres. Marcos and Vice President Harris recognize the potential for mutual growth and prosperity through collaboration, fostering economic opportunities that will benefit both nations and their people,” the Philippine House of Representatives leader noted.

Citing the White Housereleased readout of the MarcosHarris meeting, Romualdez said that the U.S. Vice President announced a new partnership with the Philippine government “to grow and diversify the global semiconductor ecosystem under the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund, created by the CHIPS Act of 2022.”

Marcos also held a meeting with the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) in the U.S., according to Romualdez, and the president assured the companies that the Philippine government is ready to work with them should they choose to invest or expand in the Philippines.

Address in July 2022, he laid out plans to ensure affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy supply for the Philippines amid its growing energy demands while providing an energy business environment that is more friendly to investors and consumers.

“I called then for the reevaluation of the possibility of safely developing nuclear energy in the Philippines, recognizing the enormous potential of nuclear energy given the new, highly advanced technologies and standards

of safety, security, and all the different safeguards that are now in place,” he said.

The President earlier said that many businessmen were discouraged to invest in the Philippines due to concerns on power supply and cost.

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson backed Marcos’ statement in October, saying a number of American nuclear technology firms are “very interested in investing” in the Philippines but hesitant due to the absence of the 123 agreement. 

Marcos, Xi meet to ease sea...

White House said.

Under the treaty, an armed attack on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea, would invoke the mutual defense commitments of the U.S. Marcos and Harris also discussed strengthening and broadening economic cooperation bilaterally and through the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework.

One of the fruits of the cooperation is the "123" civil nuclear cooperation agreement, under which the U.S. will help the Philippines "build a global clean energy economy and strengthen our shared commitment to improving energy security and advancing the global nonproliferation regime."

Harris said the agreement "will provide the legal basis for U.S. exports of nuclear equipment and material to the Philippines, which will support American workers and businesses."

The U.S. vice president also lauded a new partnership with the Philippines to diversify the country's global semiconductor ecosystem under the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund.

"This partnership will help create a more resilient, secure, and sustainable global semiconductor value chain," Harris said.

Wednesday's meeting was the fifth between Harris and Marcos. The first one was in November 2022, when Harris visited Manila.

They also met in May 2023 at the Naval Observatory, in September 2023 on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit in Jakarta, and again in the same

month for a trilateral meeting with Prime Minister Kishida in Jakarta.

House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Friday said that he believes the meeting between Marcos and Harris will "open doors" for more economic opportunities for Filipinos.

In a statement, Romualdez said the bilateral talks are a "testament to the enduring strength of the alliance between the United States and the Philippines."

"Of paramount importance is the reaffirmation during their meeting of our shared commitment to upholding international rules and norms, particularly in the South China Sea," Romualdez said.

He noted that the meeting comes after the escalation of aggressive actions by China in the South China Sea, particularly the use of water cannons and the ramming of Philippine Coast Guard vessels escorting supply boats to Ayungin.

Romualdez also said that the meeting showed a "united front" in promoting adherence to a rules-based order.

He lauded the President's pronouncement that the country is ready to participate in the US semiconductor value chain in relation to the "Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors," or Chips Act, an executive order by U.S. President Joseph Biden to work with American allies and partners to strengthen the collective supply chain resilience.

"U.S. investments into the semiconductor sector will create more jobs for our people, generate considerable revenue for the government, and advance our capabilities with the transfer of technology through such partnership," Romualdez said. 

Study: Filipino adults among those likely to...

PAGE A1

Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions conference in Philadelphia. According to Heart.org, these results are just the first chapters while the rest are meant for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Filipino adults taking the lead in high blood pressure When it comes to cardiovascular health, Filipino adults are at the forefront of high blood pressure—a major culprit for heart attacks, strokes, and heart diseases. In fact, PRESYON studies in the Philippines found that hypertension rates soared from 22 percent in the 1990s to 37 percent in 2021.

With the World Health Organization’s recent confirmation that too much sodium intake can cause high blood pressure, it’s no surprise that Filipinos are top candidates given our penchant for salty, sweet, and savory foods.

Furthermore, the study also reveals Filipino adults have higher rates of smoking. Owing to this

PRESYON studies in the Philippines found that hypertension rates soared from 22 percent in the 1990s to 37 percent in 2021.

Pexels.com photo by Thirdman

outcome, Sudsheesha Perea, a medical student at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, highlighted the need for more studies on the heart health of all Asian subgroups.

In addition, Dr. Latha Palaniappan, a professor of cardio-

vascular medicine at Stanford University and an internal medicine doctor, also noted the importance of more research into the specific Asian group at higher risk for strokes, asthma, cancer, and even mental health.

(Mary Villegas/Inquirer.net)

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Beyond insulin: Medi-Cal expands patient access...

PAGE A1

of approval and can include all needed supplies — ending the scramble to secure separate authorizations for each piece of equipment. Patients can receive 90 days’ worth of supplies and medications at once.

The state is also formalizing a policy that allows patients to obtain approvals from their health care providers by phone or video.

“Before, California’s requirements were four pages long, and now it’s just a little more than a page,” said Lisa Murdock, chief advocacy officer for the American Diabetes Association, who helped push for the changes. “This is a really important step forward. It means not having to constantly guess how blood sugars are doing.”

Before these changes, MediCal recipients had a harder time securing medication and supplies than people with private insurance, Murdock said.

“Diabetes is a really heartbreaking and costly disease, and to take care of themselves, people with diabetes need easy access to insulin, but also the supplies to manage the disease,” she said.

Patient advocates and state

health officials say the changes will save money and lives by giving those with diabetes more control over their blood sugar, and by preventing complications such as organ failure and foot and toe amputations.

This expansion in coverage “improves access and member outcomes, reduces hospitalizations and comorbidities, and improves members’ quality of life with better disease management and less finger sticks,” said Ann Carroll, a Medi-Cal spokesperson.

The state, she said, wants to ensure all diabetes patients get “the care they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.”

Before Voros got her monitor about three years ago, she had to visit an emergency room repeatedly for seizures and was hospitalized with other diabetic complications. She also lost nerve function in her stomach — which prevents digestion of highfiber foods like vegetables — as her disease advanced.

“I haven’t had to go to the intensive care unit in almost two years. It has literally saved my life,” she said.

But the bureaucratic hurdles that kept Voros from getting supplies for her monitor were a constant source of stress. That’s changing since she switched to a new medical supply company and Medi-Cal has debuted its new preauthorization process, amid a broader revamp of its pharmacy system.

Getting her supplies on time means peace of mind, Voros said.

“I used to be so afraid to go to sleep at night because of the seizures I’d get from low blood sugar,” she said. “I’ve been really close to death, but now I feel better than I ever have.”

This article is part of “Faces of Medi-Cal,” a California Healthline series exploring the impact of the state’s safety-net health program on enrollees. (Angela Hart/KFF Health News) This article was produced

by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues Patient advocates and state health officials say the changes will save money and lives and is one of the core operating by giving those with diabetes more control over their blood sugar, and by preventing programs at KFF—an independent complications such as organ failure and foot and toe amputations. source of health policy research, Unsplash.com photo by Sweet Life polling, and journalism.

At times, her authorizations expired too quickly, leaving her short on supplies and forcing her to ration and seek donations on social media from other diabetes patients.

Last year, she received only enough supplies to last six months.

“I’ve had to put in hundreds of hours over the phone in the past few years, and I’ve changed my insurance group twice because of this,” Voros said before slugging apple juice in her studio apartment in the Mission Hills neighborhood, a suburban neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley. “It’s exhausting.

It makes you want to give up. But I can’t. I’ll literally die.”

Starting in October, MediCal began relaxing prior authorization requirements that have caused life-threatening delays for Voros and others with diabetes.

Previously, authorizations for medications and supplies lasted six months, though for some patients, like Voros, they expired sooner. Under the new rules, authorizations are supposed to last one year from the date

MALL BRANCH. Antipolo City government personnel assist clients securing documents at the newly opened government services express hub at SM Cherry in Antipolo City, Rizal on Friday, Nov. 17. The Mayor’s Help Desk, Business Permit and Licensing Office, City Social Welfare and Development, Office of the Building Official, Zoning Administrator’s Office, City Health Office, Public Information Office, and police desk issuing clearances are provide services.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

‘Open up the Golden Gate of economy to build lives of hope,’ says Biden at APEC CEO Summit

by SUNITA SOHRABJI Ethnic Media Services

SAN FRANCISCO — President Joe Biden addressed a packed room of business leaders on Thursday, Nov. 16 at the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation CEO summit, advising them to build companies that prioritized workers’ rights and fair wages, rather than profits.

The 21 APEC countries collectively create 60% of the world’s GDP. “From the moment my administration took office, we built an economy from the middle out and the bottom up,” said the President. “The trickle down economy worked okay sometimes, but not a whole lot trickled down to my dad’s kitchen table.”

New economies “But when the middle class does well, the poor have a chance and the wealthiest still do very well. Because what happens?

The poor have a ladder up. The middle class and wealthy still do well,” said Biden.

“Folks, we’re already seeing the results,” he said, noting that in the last quarter, the American economy grew 4.9%, the highest

growth rate in two years.

Unemployment has been under 4% for 21 straight months, median household wealth has grown by 37%, and inflation has come down by 65%, said Biden.

He acknowledged the disconnect between the numbers and the general mood of the country regarding its pocketbook.

Historic investments Since he took office, Asia Pacific countries have invested over $200 billion in the US, said the President. “These are historic investments creating literally tens of thousands of good paying jobs for 14 million Americans.”

He championed investments in semiconductors, electric vehicles, batteries, hydrogen hubs, and other critical emerging technologies.

“The vision we pursue for the economic future of our region will be bound far beyond the Asian Pacific. It’s up to us to harness the dynamism of our economies, tap the entrepreneurial spirit of our people and unleash the unlimited potential of our partnerships in order to realize the future that will benefit people not only in the Asian Pacific region but the whole world,” said Biden. “A world where workers

are empowered and their rights are respected. Open a golden gate of opportunity, and create lives of hope,” he said.

A-List event The two-day CEO Summit was one of the most-anticipated events at the week-long APEC forum, which began Nov. 11.

The Summit drew hundreds of business leaders from across the world. Tesla founder Elon Musk; Marc Benioff, founder and CEO of Salesforce; Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft; Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi; Google CEO Sundar Pichai; Canva CEO and Co-Founder Melanie Perkins were some of the many A-list speakers at the event.

Protesters over two days attempted to block people from entering the event; at least three people have been arrested.

Several new trade deals and partnerships between APEC countries were announced during the CEO Summit. U.S. companies announced over $50 billion of investments into APEC economies over the past year. The investments focused on a wide range of clean energy technologies, including  PAGE A4

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Census Bureau funding still in GOP sights despite latest spending bill

by EDWARD KISSAMI Ethnic Media Services

THERE was an audible sigh of relief in DC on Wednesday, November 15 after Congress approved a stop-gap funding measure to keep the government running for three more months. But if you think that means conservative lawmakers have put away their shears, think again.

Part of the broader partisan fight over federal spending is an ongoing effort to cut funding for the Census Bureau, cuts that would directly impact low-income minority and immigrant households nationwide.

Why is Census Bureau funding so important? More than $2.1 trillion in federal funding is distributed every year using census data, which is essential to ensuring that economically-disadvantaged communities across the country get their fair share. But for more than a half century ethnic minorities and low-income households have been systematically undercounted in every decennial census, meaning that year in and year out they’ve been short changed when it comes to the federal funding support they need.

It’s time to change that.

Fortunately, under the leadership of Dr. Rob Santos, the Bureau’s first Latino Director, the Census Bureau has made it a top priority to accurately enumerate historically-undercounted communities in Census 2030. The cuts now being proposed in Congress would knee cap these efforts, eliminating adequate funding to support key research, planning, and improvements in data collection.

What’s at stake with Census funding?

What are the stakes for communities where poverty is rampant? Census undercounts in historically-undercounted neighborhoods compromise the equitable allocation of billions of dollars in federal funding for ESEA Title I support for enhanced instruction in schools with concentrations of students living in poverty, Section 8 housing assistance, community health centers, and WIOA funding for workforce skills development, to name just a few.

In essence, a census undercount affects communities now and well into the future, undermining health, housing, young people’s educational success and

overall well-being.

Historically undercounted communities How big of a problem is census undercount? Official estimates show that in Census 2020 Hispanics were undercounted by 4.99% (about 3.1 million people) and that American Indians on reservations were even more seriously undercounted – by 5.64%. At the same time, Non-Hispanic Whites were overcounted by 1.64% – an equity gap of about 7%. Other ethnic populations, such as Blacks and Pacific Islanders also continued to be undercounted.

In fact, these national-level estimates probably understate the problem. Recent Census Bureau research shows that in 2020 almost 10% of the population living in homes in high poverty areas – where response rates tend to be lower – were omitted from the census. There is also a serious undercount of immigrants and of non-citizens, especially working-age Hispanic non-citizens, than had previously been estimated.

Subsequent analyses colleagues and I have done also reveal deep pockets of local census undercount in both urban and rural low-income neighborhoods – especially where there are concentrations of Hispanic immigrants or farmworkers.

Billions of dollars are at stake, money vulnerable communities deserve and need to move forward. Yet just as the Census Bureau is taking steps to ensure greater equity, the Republican-dominated House Appropriations Committee is now proposing a 20% reduction below what the Biden administration is seeking to fund the Bureau as part of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies omnibus spending package.

Anti-immigrant sentiment drives proposed cuts Let’s be clear, this is not just about fiscal conservatism. There is a profound and ongoing indifference among some in DC to the role that accurate data play in achieving greater equity in contemporary society. More troubling still is evidence this indifference stems from a deeply anti-immigrant and xenophobic political agenda.

The House version of the CJS bill proposes (in Section 559) that “aliens who are unlawfully present

in the United States” should be excluded from the Census Bureau’s count in 2030 and in future censuses. This is not what the Constitution requires and is a violation of principles the Supreme Court has already upheld. The Census is supposed to count everyone here.

Nevertheless, election denier and virulently anti-immigrant Congressman Troy Nehls (R – Texas) last week went further and introduced an amendment to expand the prohibition to exclude even lawfully-present non-citizens from the census count.

The challenges to achieving an accurate count, meanwhile, continue to grow.

Growing challenges to counting communities Public willingness to respond to surveys such as the annual American Community Survey – which supports census data – is plummeting alongside trust in government. At the same time, rising housing costs are forcing more low-income families to “double up” into crowded households that have historically been the hardest for the Census Bureau to count.

Finally, the digital divide threatens to widen the gap in levels of response between affluent and low-income neighborhoods.

The Census Bureau deserves the funding it needs to overcome these and other challenges, to assure an accurate mirror of contemporary life in the U.S. and equity for undercounted populations and communities. Refusal to authorize the investment needed undercuts the Bureau’s ability to generate the sound statistical data it needs to fairly allocate funding, undermining legislative intent and decreasing the overall cost-effectiveness of federal spending.

The currently proposed budget-cutting effort appears to be ideologically-inspired and conceptually corrupt. It undermines sound and effective government spending; and should be opposed by every voter and every elected official who believes in good government.  Ed Kissam has researched census data issues for more than three decades and published extensively on differential undercount of farmworkers and Latinos. He is a member of a national network of experts and stakeholders, The Census Quality Reinforcement Task Force.

On X, formerly Twitter: @edkissam.

EARLY TREAT. Bookworms are in for an early Yuletide treat at National Book Store’s ‘Sulit Reads Christmas Book Fair’ at the New Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City in Quezon City on Friday, Nov. 17. A wide array of books is available for as low as P10 until Sunday, Nov. 19.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

De Lima tells former President Duterte...

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others who are responsible for my persecution,” De Lima said.

She also scoffed at the former president’s remarks against her after she voiced her support for the International Criminal Court’s (ICC).

ICC is investigating the previous administration’s

campaign against illegal drugs.

Duterte previously said de Lima can “go together” with ICC, as he tossed the matter aside.

In reaction, de Lima asked, “Am I a human rights violator?

Am I a killer, let alone a mass murderer?”

“Siguro ang ibig sabihin lang niyang ‘magsama-sama’ ay gusto

lang niyang may makasama siya in that lonely cell at ICC,” she said in jest.

(Maybe what he means by ‘go together’ is that he wants someone to go with him in that lonely cell at ICC.) Then, she blurted a joke, “Baka nami-miss lang niya po ako.” 

‘Open up the Golden Gate of economy to...

PAGE A3 carbon sequestration, grid decarbonization, and sustainable aviation fuel. U.S. investments also focused on digital connectivity, including new subsea cables; cybersecurity; seed funding for small businesses; and two dozen new partnerships between cutting edge U.S. companies and APECbased universities. A full list of investments was announced by the White House Nov. 16.

Global workers’ rights Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice gave a keynote address at the CEO Summit.

Earlier in the day, the Biden Administration announced the signing of a Presidential Memorandum outlining a commitment to worker rights globally. The initiative seeks to ensure high labor standards, bringing workers’ voices to the decision-making table, and

U.S. President Joe Biden (bottom row, fourth from left) with fellow world leaders at the APEC Summit in San Francisco.

Malacañang photo

enforce rules against unfair labor practices around the globe.

“Workers and labor organizations are key defenders of democracy.

Throughout history, in diverse contexts ranging from apartheid South Africa to communist Poland, Brazil’s military rule, and

Myanmar’s coup, trade unions have been instrumental in citizen movements for democracy and inclusion. U.S. actions to support workers’ right to organize will help to preserve and expand civic space and ensure workers’ voices are heard,” said Biden in the memo. 

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‘Magpakulong na lang ako’: Duterte says on subpoena over Castro’s complaint

by IAN LAQUI Philstar.com

MANILA — Former President Rodrigo Duterte said he would choose to be incarcerated rather than address the charges filed against him by Rep. France Castro (ACT-Teachers).

Duterte, who is facing grave threats under the Revised Penal Code and Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 due to his remarks threatening Castro regarding her daughter’s confidential funds, made this statement when questioned about his intention to respond to the charges.

“Magpakulong na lang ako.

Kasi wala naman akong… Inoopress ako ni France,” he said during a program alongside Apollo Quiboloy, wanted by the FBI, on Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) on Wednesday, November 15.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte

This is contrary to the statement made on Thursday, November 16 by Duterte’s legal counsel, Harry Roque, stating that the former president will face the charges after they were handed over by a Quezon City prosecutor.

“Now that there is a pending case before a Philippine fiscal’s office, of course, he will face his accusers and he will prove that he did not breach any of our existing laws,” Roque said in an interview with ANC’s “Hotcopy.”

However, Roque did not specify if Duterte would appear personally before the prosecutors or if a lawyer would appear on his behalf.

On Wednesday, Castro expressed hope that Duterte would participate in the preliminary investigation regarding the case.

“Very thankful ako sa Quezon City Prosecutor’s office kasi

Malacañang file photo

after three-days na-file naming itong complaint ay umaksyon na sila agad,” he said.

Castro lodged a case against Duterte citing Article 282 of the Revised Penal Code and Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. This came after Duterte's threat, declaring her as the "first target" of Vice President Sara Duterte’s confidential intelligence fund.

Throughout his presidency, Duterte often made explicit threats of death and imprisonment towards individuals. For instance, he targeted former senator Leila De Lima, accusing her of involvement in the illegal drug trade in 2016, resulting in her arrest in 2017.

Similarly, during his nightly addresses during the COVID-19 pandemic, he issued threats of arrest against those who refused vaccination, drawing criticisms from the Commission on Human Rights and numerous groups and organizations.

With the expiration of his presidential immunity, Duterte faces potential charges under Philippine law alongside the looming International Criminal Court prosecution for alleged human rights violations during the drug war.

Despite losing immunity, Duterte continues his tendency to make sharp remarks on issues and critics during shows like SMNI, sometimes even echoing a pro-Beijing narrative that mentions avoiding war against China.

Based on the subpoena issued against Duterte, he is required to show-up at the office of the city prosecutor in Quezon City on December 4 and 11. 

KIDS’ FAVORITE. A vendor selling popcorn pushes his mobile cart along 11th Jamboree Road in Quezon City on Wednesday, Nov. 15. The snack, which comes in three flavors – sweet, cheese, and plain – is a favorite among kids and is often sold outside schools.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald Alfiler

No House-backed impeachment moves vs VP Duterte, solons say

MANILA — House lawmakers on Thursday, November 16 denied that discussions on the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte had been brewing in the lower chamber.

For Deputy Majority Leader Rep. Erwin Tulfo, the Vice President has not committed any impeachable offense.

Tulfo also said that the impeachment call has not been discussed by the House leadership.

“This morning, I reached out to leaders, including Cong. Zaldy [Co] and the Speaker, to address rumors circulating in Congress.

“However, there is no substance to these discussions; no such thing has been deliberated among party leaders or the House leadership,” Tulfo said.

Tulfo stressed that the lower chamber’s goal “is to unite for the people and progress, not against Sara Duterte or her family.”

Furthermore, House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe slammed He said both damage to the rumors as “baseless and property and aftershocks are detrimental to political unity.” expected from the latest tremor.

Dalipe, in a statement, also said So far, only instrumental that such talks “are mere attempts intensities have been recorded, to sow discord” between Duterte according to Bacolcol. and House Speaker Martin Phivolcs has yet to issue a Romualdez. tsunami warning as of posting Deputy Minority Leader and time.  ACT Teachers Party-list Rep.

France Castro was quoted as saying in reports that discussions were circulating within the House regarding the potential impeachment of Duterte.

In August, Castro also said that the Makabayan bloc is entertaining the possibility of filing an impeachment case against Duterte over her secret fund

request for the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education (DepEd).

However, due to it being a “divisive” issue, Duterte decided not to pursue her requests for confidential funds amounting to P500 million for the OVP office and another P150 million for DepEd. (Inquirer.net)

7.2 earthquake shakes Davao Occidental – Phivolcs

by ARIC JOHN SY CUA

AND ARLIE O. CALALO ManilaTimes.net

MANILA — A magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit Davao Occidental on Friday, November 17, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology

(Phivolcs) said.

Phivolcs said the tremor took place around 4: 14 p.m. some 30 kilometers southwest of Sarangani in the province.

Tectonic in origin, its depth of focus was 10 kilometers, Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said.

problem DEALING WITH INSURANCE CLAIMS? We’ll take it.*

A6 NOVEMBER 18-21, 2023 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

FEATURES

OPINION

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Free after six years

THERE’S a lot of understandable rejoicing over the release, even if still temporary, of former senator Leila De Lima. Her release on P300,000 bail, however, is yet another indictment of the inefficiency of the Philippine justice system.

De Lima still has one last drug case to hurdle, after the other cases were dismissed following the retraction of key witnesses’ testimonies against her. Last Monday, November 13, the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court’s Branch 206 allowed her to post bail along with her four codefendants: her former driver Ronnie Dayan and security personnel Joenel Sanchez and Jad Dera as well as former Bureau of Corrections director Franklin Bucayu.

Arrested on Feb. 24, 2017 just over half a year after assuming a Senate seat, De Lima was detained without bail at Camp Crame on several drug charges revolving around accusations that she received payola from drug traffickers in the New Bilibid Prison when she was the justice secretary. The money was allegedly raised for her Senate bid.

The administration of Rodrigo Duterte is widely suspected of initiating De Lima’s prosecution because of her investigation, when she was the human rights commissioner, of his involvement in drug killings in Davao City when he was the mayor. Duterte has consistently denied the use of

so-called death squads in the city’s crackdown on illegal drugs.

This issue remains unresolved, and is part of the investigation by the International Criminal Court on possible crimes against humanity committed

by Duterte in his bloody campaign against the drug scourge when he was Davao mayor and then president.

On Oct. 9 last year, De Lima survived being taken hostage by another inmate at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center at Camp Crame.

The Marcos administration offered to have De Lima placed under house arrest. De Lima refused, preferring instead to gain her freedom, even if initially on bail, through the regular judicial process.

How much longer she will wait for final judgment on her case is anybody’s guess. In 2017, the Supreme Court had issued revised guidelines for continuous trial of criminal cases. For drug cases, lower courts were required to complete the trial not later than 60 days from filing of information, and to hand down a decision within 15 days from submission of the case for resolution.

Editorial

THE tallest tree catches the most wind, a Chinese proverb goes. Vice President Sara Duterte – she of the 32-million plus people’s mandate – continues to be relentlessly targeted by an unholy alliance, based on a common political interest, among the Opposition, leftist groups, and two-faced UniTeam alliance members.

Despite a dip in recent public opinion surveys, Inday Sara remains a highly trusted government official and a formidable candidate in the 2028 presidential elections.

At this point, politicos eyeing the presidency see her as the biggest stumbling block to their ultimate goal. They treat her like sand in their eyes, someone they cannot tolerate. Hence, the series of political demolition jobs against Inday.

Recently, there have been reports that several Congressmen want to unseat her through impeachment. The Vice President can be removed from office in the same manner as the President, according to the 1987 Constitution.

Impeachment Initiative During the Duterte administration, several political personalities allied with the supermajority in the Upper and Lower Chambers wanted to remove the overcritical yet unpopular Vice President Leni Robredo from office. I recall the politicians presenting the impeachment case against Robredo to then-President Rodrigo Duterte. Digong gave the thumbs down right away. His response was: “What for? She does not pose a threat to the government. Most of our people would not believe her anyway.”

From the onset, the most popular post-EDSA Revolution president never took the Opposition seriously. He knew that any destabilization plot against him would spectacularly fail. The exVP and most Liberal Party candidates, who raved against Duterte for six long years, got pulverized by the erstwhile solid UniTeam in the last elections. Likewise, the incessant anti-government rantings of many party-list groups cum sympathizers of the CPP-NPA terrorist eventually led to a humiliating defeat.

In a political plot twist, his daughter Inday finds herself in the middle of impeachment rumors. The Lower House gossip mill has been churning nonstop

AFTER its initial start got suspended, the stage is now set for the much-vaunted Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) to finally take off. This developed following the release last week of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) that were revised upon the imprimatur of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PBBM). And on Monday, PBBM officially named his adviser on economic and investment affairs as president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC).

As created by Republic Act (RA) 11954 that PBBM signed on July 18 this year, the country’s first sovereign wealth fund will run as the newest vehicle to bring in more capital to finance major infrastructure and other big-ticket projects in the Philippines. PBBM appointed Rafael Consing Jr., who is currently the executive director of the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Investment and Economic Affairs, as MIC president and CEO for three years.

since the legislative body rejected the VP’s request for Confidential Funds in the 2024 national budget. Mindful of her oath to preserve our strong and peaceful Republic, Inday has let go of the divisive issue. She would no longer pursue the additional funds that could have assisted or improved the lives of poor families that the Office of the Vice President (OVP) serves across the country.

Allegedly, several House leaders and political parties want to impeach Inday for utilizing contingency funds (coming from the Office of the President or OP) without authority from Congress.

But how come they are only targeting the OVP? Should they not hold the OP accountable, too, for releasing the funds? Should they not apply the equal protection clause in this case?

As regards the impeachment report, the House Majority Leader has made a denial. But a Makabayan bloc member stated otherwise. The representative has alluded to an ongoing discussion among Congressmen to impeach Sara.

As early as September, the Makabayan bloc has mulled filing an impeachment complaint against VP Sara. On another front, arch-critics of the Duterte

and Marcos families have filed petitions before the Supreme Court questioning the legality of the contingency fund transfer, as well as the constitutionality of confidential and intelligence funds.

Removal from Office What does our Constitution say when there is a vacancy in the OVP? The incumbent President is required to nominate a replacement from among the Members of the Senate and the House of Representatives. He or she shall assume office upon confirmation by a majority vote of all the Members of both Houses of Congress, voting separately. Such was the case of the late Senator-turned-Vice President Teofisto Guingona, Jr., the first appointee to the second-highest post in the land.

It follows that the incumbent Senate President, the current House Speaker, or any legislator is eligible to become Vice President once the position is declared vacant. Who to nominate is the President’s prerogative. Of course, it would help the lawmaker’s cause if he or she is close to the sitting chief executive by friendship, consanguinity, or affinity.

Let me be clear. I am not accusing any elected lawmaker

(particularly in the Lower House) of salivating over the position of Inday Sara. However, each legislator is a potential beneficiary of a vacancy in the OVP. The legislative body enjoys the exclusive power to initiate impeachment cases against the President, VP, Members of the Supreme Court and Constitutional Commissions, and the Ombudsman, who has violated the Constitution, committed high crimes, or betrayed public trust.

A vote of at least one-third of House Members must either affirm a favorable resolution with the Articles of Impeachment of the House Committee or override its contrary resolution (Article 11, Section 3).

Take note that most of these politicos are members or affiliated with the UniTeam. They benefited from Inday’s decision to forge an alliance with President Bongbong Marcos, Jr. And it includes Speaker and UniTeam stalwart Martin Romualdez. In the spirit of unity, healing, and reconciliation, Inday gave way to PBBM to end the politics and culture of hatred that have bedeviled the nation since 1986.

She campaigned hard for him in the Visayas and Mindanao, where he had a weaker support base. If Inday was power-hungry,

she could have been sitting in Malacanang Palace now. But she knows her public service record and experience are not yet ripe for the position. Therefore, I am disappointed that Speaker Romualdez has failed to scuttle the political noise within his turf. He and his allies continue to downplay the rift in the alliance. But their actions continue to betray their words.

Will the impeachment case against VP Sara prosper? Given my experience in filing impeachment cases against former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and ex-Comelec chair Andy Bautista, I do not think so. Without the imprimatur of the sitting president, any impeachment process that does not involve the chief executive is bound to fail.

Will the President support the impeachment process against Inday Sara? As Inday’s other half in the UniTeam alliance, I hope not.

It is time for PBBM to break his silence. I urge him to tell the Filipino public in unequivocal terms if he still stands by Vice President Duterte. (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.

Creating wealth

Creating wealth

MARICHU A. VILLANUEVA

court just three months after his court indictment.

De Lima’s case has been on trial not just for 60 days, six weeks or six months, but over six years.

The injustice is barely eased by her temporary liberty. (Philstar.com)

Impeaching the VP

The Broader View

HARRY ROQUE

ManilaTimes.net photo

In January this year, the eldest son of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Juanito Jose Remulla III, benefited from the continuous trial rule. The younger Remulla was acquitted of a P1.3million drug possession case by a Las Piñas City

Under Section 21 of the RA 11954, the MIC Board will be composed of nine members. The Secretary of Finance will serve as the chairperson in ex-officio capacity. Other members of the board are the president and CEO of the MIC, who will sit as the vice chairperson; the president and CEO of the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP); president and CEO of the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP); two regular directors and three independent directors from the private sector.

The MIC is expected to have at least P75 billion in paid-up capital this year, with LBP’s P50 billion and P25 billion from the DBP. PBBM and his economic managers led by Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno strongly pushed the enactment of the Maharlika law that targeted its implementation before the end of this year. But this did not stop PBBM from suspending the IRR last Oct.12, purportedly to ensure the fund’s objectives are realized for the country’s development, with safeguards in place for transparency and accountability.

The suspension order came a day after Marcos reduced LBP’s deposits to the government from

50 percent to zero percent for 2022 earnings a few weeks after the state-run bank gave P50 billion as a part of the capital of the MIF. The Palace released last Nov. 11 the revised IRR of the Maharlika law which notably gave the President the upper hand to choose its top officials and at the same time removed the additional qualifications of regular and independent directors, particularly in terms of education, professional experience, track record and ethical standards.

This enabled PBBM to appoint Consing, who is seen as not having impressive education credentials.

Diokno, however, argued the revisions on the IRR were done to further assuage and encourage local and international investors that have expressed keen interest in the MIF. “The IRR’s emphasis on ensuring the independence of the Board of Directors of the MIC allows it more headroom to form credible oversight and risk management bodies while upholding the highest standards of effective fund management,” Diokno pointed out.

It was Diokno who originally toyed with the idea of creating the country’s first-ever sovereign

wealth fund while he was still the governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). At that time, the planned funding source would largely come from BSP surplus.

As originally proposed, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and the Social Security System (SSS) were supposed to be tapped as sources also of the “seed capital” for the MIF. This met stiff resistance though from the lawmakers themselves.

But another bill still pending at the 19th Congress would soon mandate the GSIS to take a lead role in the management of “trust funds” other than its present memberships from the civilian government.

The GSIS will be tapped to manage – not just one but two – “trust funds” for the proposed Military and Uniformed Personnel (MUP) pensions. This is under the revised House Bill (HB) 8969, or the MUP Pension Fund System approved on third and final reading last month at the Lower Chamber.

HB 8969 also seeks, among others, to establish two separate “trust funds:” one for the Armed Forces of the Philippines

(AFP) and the other will be for the uniformed services of the following: the Philippine National Police (PNP); the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG); the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP); the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP); the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA).

Regarded as the resident economist of the 19th Congress, Albay Rep.Joey Salceda revised the original MUP bill in conjunction with the new inputs submitted by Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. Appointed in June this year, Teodoro worked out a revised MUP bill that, among others, will tap the GSIS as the “fund manager” for the MUPs of the AFP. Both (MUP) “trust funds” will be separate and distinct and will not be comingled with GSIS funds.

The revised MUP bill no longer requires mandatory contribution but will apply only to new entrants in the AFP while keeping intact the present pensions of retired AFP officers and men.

Incidentally, Salceda is also one of the principal authors of

the MIF Law he worked out with PBBM’s economic team. In tandem anew with the Dioknoled economic team, Salceda salvaged the original MUP bill to remove contentious provisions of the automatic indexation of the pension with the salary of the MUP members.

The House-approved MUP bill is now pending at the Senate committee on national defense, security, peace and reconciliation chaired by Senator Jinggoy Estrada. During our Kapihan sa Manila Bay news forum last week, Estrada disclosed he has adopted the DND-AFP draft bill.

While both chambers of Congress are still busy with the approval of the proposed 2024 budget, Sen. Estrada vows to see through next in Congress the approval of the MUP bill.

If properly managed, these new “trust funds” will be veritable sources of investments to help create wealth for the country.

(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.

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

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NAIA turnover to new operator by 2nd half of 2024 MANILA – The awarding to the winning bidder for the rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is set for the first quarter of next year, with the turn-over of operations by the second half of 2024, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) officerin-charge Bryan Co. "We will give time for the eventual operator to prepare.

Usually, it takes around three to six months depending on the things they have to finalize. We are expecting the turnover to the private proponent by the second half of next year," he said.

The winning bidder, he said, is expected to improve the NAIA complex, including facilities such as the runway, taxiway, and ramp areas as well as the firefighting facility.

He said the MIAA will monitor the key performances and service level of the private proponent.

"They are expected to take over the whole operation and plan for the immediate rehabilitation of all critical areas," Co said.

Eight proponents, including a consortium of the country's biggest conglomerates, have so far bought the bid documents for

the PHP170.6 billion project.

Co said bidding for the PPP (public-private partnership) is still open, but noted that any addition to the current eight bidders “is very less likely now” due to a very short period until the Dec. 27 bid submission date.

Co, meanwhile, asked for the public's understanding as there would be “some disruptions” when the rehabilitation takes place.

The airport's rehabilitation project is expected to increase the annual passenger capacity from 32 million to 62 million.

(PNA)MANILA – The awarding to the winning bidder for the rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is set for the first quarter of next year, with the turn-over of operations by the second half of 2024, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) officerin-charge Bryan Co said on Thursday, November 16.

"We will give time for the eventual operator to prepare.

Usually, it takes around three to six months depending on the things they have to finalize. We are expecting the turnover to the private proponent by the second half of next year," he said.

The winning bidder, he said, is expected to improve the NAIA complex, including facilities such as the runway, taxiway, and ramp areas as well as the firefighting facility.

He said the MIAA will monitor the key performances and service level of the private proponent.

"They are expected to take over the whole operation and plan for the immediate rehabilitation of all critical areas," Co said.

Eight proponents, including a consortium of the country's biggest conglomerates, have so far bought the bid documents for the P170.6 billion project.

Co said bidding for the PPP (public-private partnership) is still open, but noted that any addition to the current eight bidders “is very less likely now” due to a very short period until the Dec. 27 bid submission date.

Co, meanwhile, asked for the public's understanding as there would be “some disruptions” when the rehabilitation takes place.

The airport's rehabilitation project is expected to increase the annual passenger capacity from 32 million to 62 million.

(PNA)

Romualdez: Time to put aside talks about 2028 polls

MANILA – Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Friday, November 17 called for unity across party lines to achieve progress and improve the lives of Filipinos, saying it is time to set aside speculations about the 2028 electoral prospects.

"As Speaker of the House of Representatives, my priority is to promote unity and collaboration across all political lines. This is a time to put aside rumors and speculations about future elections and concentrate on what we can achieve together for the betterment of our country and the welfare of the Filipino people," Romualdez said in a statement.

Romualdez made the remark in response to former President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s claim that the House leader intends to run for president in the 2028 elections.

"I am grateful for the former President's engagement with the political discourse, and I understand the curiosity surrounding the 2028 elections. However, I believe it is important to focus on the present challenges facing our nation," he said.

He further noted that the country is currently dealing with significant economic, public health and regional issues that demand immediate attention.

"Marami pang problema ang mga Pilipino na kailangang bigyan ng solusyon. Hindi eleksyon ang sagot sa sikmurang gutom (Filipinos are facing several problems that need a solution. Election is

Ferdinand Martin Romualdez

PNA file photo

not the answer to an empty stomach)," he said.

He stressed that his focus is on his current responsibilities as Speaker and not on future electoral possibilities.

"Regarding my personal political aspirations, I am currently committed to my role as Speaker and serving the needs of our nation," he said.

Romualdez also acknowledged the valuable contributions of Duterte, as he expressed hope that the former president will continue to lend his support and expertise.

"His continued involvement is crucial as we strive to overcome the challenges we face. Our collective efforts are vital for the progress and prosperity of the Philippines," he said. (PNA)

AMUSEMENT PARK. An image of the Philippine eagle serves as one of the attractions of the newly opened Enervon #UnlockYourWorld at House of Energy at the Tales of Illumina amusement park in Ever Gotesco Mall along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City. Actress Anne Curtis (not in photo) on Nov. 15, 2023 graced the opening of the Tales of Illumina amusement park that highlights Philippine folklore, mythology, and legends such as Ibong Adarna, Florante at Laura, and other mythical creatures.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

SolGen on De Lima’s intent to help ICC probers: Don’t expect gov’t cooperation

by IAN LAQUI Philstar.com

MANILA — Former Senator Leila De Lima can help the International Criminal Court’s prosecutors but cannot expect cooperation from the Philippine government, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said.

“Senator De Lima is now a private individual, and nothing prevents any private person to assist the ICC investigator in pursuing ‘yung kanyang investigation in the Philippines.

That’s her privilege if she wants to help the ICC prosecutors,” Guevarra said in a press briefing with reporters on Friday.

(Senator De Lima is currently a private individual, and there is nothing stopping any private person from aiding the ICC investigator in pursuing their investigation in the Philippines.

It's her prerogative if she chooses to assist the ICC prosecutors.)

On Wednesday, November 15, De Lima expressed her intention to help in “whatever capacity” in the investigation of the extrajudicial killings during the war on drugs.

“Dati ko pa talagang iniisip yan, in whatever capacity, kung ano pa bang pwedeng gawin para

makatulong sa imbestigasyon ng ICC. Although it’s ongoing, I am very much willing,” she said in a separate interview with the reporters.

(I've really been thinking about that for a while now, in whatever capacity, what else can be done to help with the ICC investigation.

Although it's ongoing, I am very much willing.)

“After all, sinimulan ko rin naman yang investigation na ‘yan,” she added.

(After all, I also started that investigation.)

Guevarra also reiterated that the ICC did not rule on matters of jurisdiction. He cited the two judges of the ICC appeals chamber who voted to stop the investigations in the country due to jurisdictional issues.

“Nothing prevents a prosecutor, he can conduct his investigations in any way he wants. The only problem is, wag siya mag expect ng cooperation,... direct and actual cooperation from the government because the Republic of the Philippines maintained its question of jurisdiction,” Guevarra said.

In July, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that the country would not cooperate with the ICC investigation also citing

jurisdictional issues.

However, Retired Supreme Court (SC) Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio pointed out that the Philippines still has an obligation to cooperate with the ICC investigation because the country was still a member of the Rome Statute when the alleged crimes were committed during the war on drugs.

Carpio cited the 2021 Pangilinan et al. vs. Cayetano et. al. case, in which the Supreme Court rejected the petitions challenging the validity of the Philippines' withdrawal from the ICC. “We have the obligation to cooperate because these are crimes which were allegedly committed before we withdrew.

It is our obligation. I am just quoting the Supreme Court decision,” Carpio said on November 15 citing the decision penned by SC Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen.

In March 2019, the Philippines exited the Rome Statute following the commencement of ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda's preliminary investigation into alleged human rights abuses during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign. 

The Bedrock of Society: Professor Yang Li on the Impact of IP Protection Disputes Amidst Evolving China-US Trade Relations

by RichaRd Lee

After months of intense negotiations and escalating tariffs that have ruffled the feathers of the global economy, the United States and China have taken a significant step toward easing trade tensions. Central to this conciliatory move is a mutual agreement on the protection of intellectual property rights, which has been a core issue fueling the trade dispute.

In a landmark announcement, both superpowers have agreed to implement and enforce measures that would ensure the stringent protection of intellectual property (IP). This breakthrough is expected to bridge a chasm that has long separated the two economies.

The new framework for IP protection is being hailed as a victory for international innovators and businesses that have often voiced concerns over alleged IP theft and forced technology transfers in China. As part of the agreement, China has committed to revise its laws to strengthen the enforcement of IP rights, including the imposition of stricter penalties for violations of these rights. In return, the U.S. has agreed to significantly reduce tariffs on Chinese goods, a move that could revive trade flows and quell market volatility.

However, it seems that China’s concessions on IP rights have resulted in the world’s two largest economies fighting a

different kind of trade war.

Weaponizing intellectual property law—using it as a tool to exert pressure or gain undue advantage in trade negotiations—has become a familiar strategy in global commerce, particularly in the fraught China-US trade relations.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation and the need for expert guidance, the China-US Business Summit, announced its decision to appoint Professor Yang Li as the head of its China-US Trade Dispute Consultation Commission last month.

The Summit’s decision underscores Professor Li’s expertise and her accomplishments in the field, reinforcing her status as a thought leader whose perspectives can steer the discourse towards more constructive and law-abiding approaches to resolving trade disputes.

The appointment of Professor Li to this critical role promises a shift towards more principled negotiations between China and the United States. The Commission’s spokesperson told the reporter, “With Professor Li at the helm, the Commission is expected to advocate for dispute resolutions that respect intellectual property rights, uphold the rule of law, and honor due process. Such a move is a hopeful sign for the international community, signaling a commitment to fairness and legality over opportunism and short-term

gains.”

Professor Li, with a sterling reputation in the field of intellectual property law, is renowned for his incisive analysis and scholarly contributions. His extensive body of work, which comprises many influential papers, emphasizes the critical role of the rule of law and due process in resolving intellectual property disputes at an international level. His work is essential in forming China’s intellectual property protection framework.

While some may argue that the “weaponization” of IP laws is just another lever in the grand scheme of trade negotiation, Professor Li warns of the far-reaching consequences of such practices. According to him, this approach undermines the very essence of the rule of law, eroding trust and cooperation between nations. When intellectual property law is used as a bargaining chip rather than a shield of innovation, it not only distorts the legal frameworks but also causes long-term damage to the fabric of society by encouraging a climate of conflict and retaliation.

This “weaponization” has been especially prevalent in the ongoing China-US trade disputes, where intellectual property issues often become the focal point of contention. The implications of such practices are not limited to the economic domain but extend to the political and social arenas,

affecting the relationship between the world’s two largest economies.

At a recent symposium attended by leading legal minds from across the globe, Professor Li underscored that while intellectual property rights are a legitimate and important aspect of international trade, their misuse undercuts the very principles they are meant to protect. “It’s not just about legal outcomes;

it’s about the process and perception of justice,” Professor Li remarked.

“When we bend the law to serve short-term trade goals, we erode trust in the system designed to protect inventors and creators, and this can have profound implications beyond the cases at hand.”

As the two nations grapple with complex trade issues, the voice of top legal scholars like Professor Li is vital in steering

the conversation toward sustainable and just legal practices. Professor Li’s insights come at a critical time when global tensions are high, and the temptation to cut corners for national gain is ever-present. His call for adherence to due process is a timely reminder that the law should serve as the great equalizer, not a weapon of economic conflict, and most importantly, it serves as the bedrock of society.

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Saturday, NOVEMBER 18, 2023

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Atty. Gurfinkel answers more immigration questions from Kapamilya in Woodside, New York on Citizen Pinoy

LEADING U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel returns to Kabayan Bistro at Little Manila along Roosevelt Avenue in Woodside, New York, to answer more questions from our Kapamilya.

• When Aurora became a U.S. citizen, she petitioned her two sons, who were already over 21 years old. She wants to know how long they

must wait for their visas.

• Ed has been a green card holder for more than 40 years. He wants to know what he needs to do to bring his grandchild to the U.S. • Rose petitioned her son in 2009. According to the National Visa Center (NVC), her son is in line for his medical and visa interview. Rose PAGE B2

Claudine says friendship with Raymart ‘not possible’ By anne pasajol Inquirer.net

CLAUDINE Barretto said that she and her former husband Raymart Santiago are unlikely to become friends because of his current partner, whom the actress described as someone who is “not a good influence” on the actor.

Barretto reiterated that she and Santiago are still going through the process of annulment, after she was asked about their relationship during a media conference for her TV series “Lovers/Liars” on Wednesday, Nov. 15.

“Sa mediation lang kami nagkita pero hindi kami nakakapag-usap,” she told the members of the press, as reported by Bandera. (We only saw each other during the mediation but we did not talk.)

“Dati oo, [merong chance to be friends with Raymart] pero

KAPAMILYA IN WOODSIDE, QUEENS, NEW YORK, GET ANSWERS TO THEIR IMMIGRATION QUESTIONS FROM LEADING U.S. IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL ON PART 2 OF “YOUR TANONG, MY SAGOT.” Atty. Gurfinkel (right) answers the following questions – From Rose (left photo): I petitioned my son in 2009. The National Visa Center (NVC) says he is in line for his medical and visa interview. Can I now include my grandchildren in my petition?; From Ed (middle photo): I have been a green card holder for over 40 years now. How can I bring my grandchild to the U.S.?; From Aurora (right photo, with Atty. Gurfinkel): When I became a U.S. citizen, I petitioned my two sons, who were already over 21 years old. How long do we have to wait for their visas? Stay tuned for the answers to these questions and more from Kapamilya in Woodside, Queens, New York, in Part 2 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, November 19 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)

‘GomBurZa’ and the significance of revisiting history

By Christina alpad ManilaTimes.net

Claudine Barretto and Raymart Santiago Photos from YouTube/Karen Davila, Instagram/@raymartsantiago

siguro sa bagong relationship niya, hindi possible kasi hindi magandang influence sa kanya compared sa isa dati,” she added, opting not to name anyone.

(Before, there was a chance for us to be friends, but with

his new relationship now, it’s not possible. She’s not a good influence on him, unlike his previous partner.)

Santiago’s most recent confirmed relationship was with PAGE B3

METRO Manila Film Festival (MMFF) official entry “Gomburza” hopes to reawaken the Filipinos’ burning passion for for national justice, equality, truth, and independence in telling the story of three martyr Catholic priest, Fr. Mariano Gomez, Fr. Jose Burgos, and Fr. Jacinto Zamora.

But why is it important to do?

In the movie’s grand media Dante Rivero as Mariano Gomez PAGE B2

Photo courtesy of MediaQuest

B2 NOVEMBER 18-21, 2023 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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SMC-PLEX, a game changer infra project in Pangasinan

By Melandrew T. Velasco

Rose (left) with Atty. Gurfinkel

Ed (left) with Atty. Gurfinkel

Atty. Gurfinkel answers more immigration...

PAGE B1 wants to know if she can include her many new grandchildren in her petition for her son.

Atty.

Gurfinkel answers these questions in the second installment of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” in Woodside in Queens, New York. Watch this brandnew episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, November 20 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET through select Cable/Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo.

Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

(Advertising Supplement)

Aurora (left) with Atty. Gurfinkel

PANGASINAN, the third largest province in the Philippines, received a major boost recently from San Miguel Corporation Infrastructure with the signing of a joint venture agreement for an expressway project costing P34 billion.

Being a native son of Pangasinan, I am delighted to learn of the good news that a joint venture agreement for the 76.80-km Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX) project was signed recently between the Pangasinan government led by Gov. Ramon Guico III and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) president and CEO Ramon S. Ang. “This project will bridge the east and west corridors of the province, reflecting our commitment to enhancing regional connectivity. By catalyzing growth beyond Metro Manila, we are paving the way for broader opportunities for our fellow kababayan in the provinces. Thank you Governor Guico and the Pangasinan provincial team for helping make this vision a reality,” said RSA at the project launch.

In his speech, Ang cited Pangasinan as a great province in the entire Luzon as he mentioned other SMC business interests and projects in the province, namely the San Roque Multi Purpose Dam which they plan to expand to become a pump hydro producing 1,600 megawatt power; the construction of train terminal in San Fabian or Sual; and the construction of the integrated mega poultry factory in Sison.

If he were still around, the late former President Fidel V. Ramos, also a native son of Pangasinan, would have been the first to do the thumbs sign for RSA’s latest caper for the province whom he described as a visionary, a patriot and strategic thinker. To FVR’s credit, it was during the Ramos presidency when two flagship projects were made possible – the 435 MW San Roque Multi Purpose Dam providing also irrigation, flood control and improvement of water quality; and, the 1,200 MW Power Station, the largest and cost effective coalfired power station in the Philippines – both now being managed by SMC. On several occasions, I had the rare privilege to be with FVR and RSA at the former’s RPDEV office in Makati in the presence of former MWSS Chairman/Administrator Gen. Reynaldo V. Velasco and some other Pangasinan boys like Engr.

Fred Reyes, Gen. Wilson Victorio and sportsman Freddie Jalasco.

I vividly recall FVR saying this to RSA before the group: “Don Ramon, continue being a nation builder. You are a silent patriot who has built, is building, and will build important infrastructures so that many Filipinos will have better quality of life, at no cost to the government, no guarantees and no subsidies from the government. You have a grasp of what it means to be maka-Diyos, maka-Tao, maka-Kalikasan and maka-Bansa.”

It is heartening to know that the young and energetic provincial leaders, Governor Mon Mon and Vice Governor Mark, are taking the lead to leapfrog Pangasinan into a real investment hub in Northern Luzon. I only met Gov Mon on several occasions through his late cousin Benjie Guico Gotoc and Vice Gov Mark with his wife Atty.

Melanie at MWSS. I have been blessed to have worked with their respective fathers – Fifth District Congressman Monching Guico and former CEZA Chief Atty. Raul Lambino – as well as other eminent Pangasinan leaders in the past as I shared every Pangasinense’s dream of a progressive province in the Northern Luzon Economic Quadrangle.

Governor Guico said the expressway project is a fulfillment of one of his major platforms for the province as he cited House Bill 4126 that he filed in Congress as Representative of the 5th District where he served from 2019 to 2022.

“Today, we actualize the partnership that our province has nurtured and treasured with San Miguel Corporation through the leadership of Dr. Ramon S. Ang,” said Guico.

“PLEX is one of the symbols of our connection and it is dedicated to the more than 3.1 million Pangasinenses who dreamed of the long overdue progress of the province. PLEX is one of the most important game-changers of the provincial administration. Through the PLEX, we shall have a systematized, comprehensive approach in navigating through Pangasinan, creating a new road map.”

For his part, Vice Governor Mark Lambino said the new road project will finally set in motion what so many of us dreamed of – a better and safer road network not only in Pangasinan, but in the entire Ilocos Region. “It also ushers in the birth and development of new growth centers and industries in our area, and the boost and unlocking of the economic potentials for our beloved province,” added Lambino.

Once completed, the expressway will reduce travel time from Binalonan town to the capital town of Pangasinan which is Lingayen, from an hour and 40 minutes to only around 20 to 30 minutes.

Project segments will be from Binalonan to Manaoag, 6.9 km; Manaoag to Calasiao, 11.3 km; Calasiao spur, 2.39 km; and Calasiao to Lingayen, 22.7 km. Aside from improving mobility, PLEX will become a revenue-generating project for Pangasinan.

The Binalonan-Lingayen segment will be the first phase while Lingayen-Alaminos City will be the second phase of the project.

Witnessing the signing were 1st District Congressman Arthur F. Celeste, Sr.; 4th District Congressman Christopher de Venecia, 5th District Congressman Ramon Guico, Jr., ABONO Partylist Representative Robert Raymund “Eskimo” Estrella, former Bayambang Mayor and businessman Cezar T. Quiambao, members of the provincial board, Local Government Unit (LGU) chief executives led by Lingayen Mayor Leopoldo Bataoil, department heads of the provincial government headed by Provincial Administrator Melicio Patague, line agency representatives, members of the international, national and local media, among others.

Magnayon Pangasinan!

Thank you RSA and SMC Infrastructure! *** (The author is a prolific book writer and publisher of coffee-table books with a least 40 titles to his name. He is the president of Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. He is also the president and executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc, a non-government outfit advocating tree planting and watershed protection.)

‘GomBurZa’ and the significance of...

PAGE B1 conference, award-winning filmmaker and “Gomburza” director Pepe Diokno explained it best, “This story is immensely important not only for its historical value but also for its relevance to Filipinos today.”

“In our textbooks, there isn’t much about Gomburza, but at the National Museum, you’ll find a prominent Gomburza painting right at the entrance.

They were the catalysts of our national consciousness. We’re incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to share this story.”

Father Emmanuel Nono Alfonso, (executive director of Jesuit Communications and also executive producer of Gomburza, agreed, adding, “For us, it’s important to tell that our church, through the lives of three priests, became instrumental in the formation of our nation. This film also serves as a social critique. It happened more than a century ago, but in a way, it could also be happening in today’s time.”

Produced by JesCom Films, the producer of the awardwinning film “Ignacio De Loyola” (2016), and MQuest Ventures of MediaQuest, in cooperation with CMB Film Services, the newest feature film features Dante Rivero, Cedrick Juan, and Enchong Dee playing the titular roles, respectively.

The story revolves around the time when Padre Pedro Peláez (played by Piolo Pascual) began and led the secularization movement.

Through this movement, the priests inspired the educated middle class as well as the liberal intellectuals and students, including the brother of Jose Rizal, Paciano Mercado (portrayed by Elijah Canlas). The advocacy for the Filipinization of the Church continued despite the execution of Gomes, Burgos, and Zamora as their death never silenced the enlightened.

The GomBurZa execution in 1872 was the inspiration of Jose Rizal in writing his novel ‘El Filibusterismo,’ and also sparked the Philippine Revolution that was led by Andres Bonifacio and the Katipunan.

National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquín even said, “If there is a date we can designate as the beginning of a nationalist consciousness, it is February 17, 1872.”

Asked why they agreed to do

Cedrick Juan as Jose Burgos

Enchong Dee as Jacinto Zamora

the historical film, both Rivero and Dee said they wanted to work on a project that tells a true-to-life narrative.

“I have a conscious effort to stay long in this industry and create films that I can revisit, learning and feeling something new each time,” Dee, involved in consecutive film projects, stated.

“I love that I became a part of GomBurZa and that they approached me. I didn’t hesitate because I genuinely want to create true-to-life stories. I trust that they won’t let any scene stray from reality,” shared Rivero, a veteran actor last seen in the 2018 Cinemalaya film “Kung Paano Hinihintay Ang Dapithapon.”

Meanwhile, Juan, the final lead actor to be cast, shared his journey of praying and striving for the role.

“I really prayed and worked hard to get the role. I had a conversation with direk Pepe who related how they’ve been trying to fill the role for the longest time. So when the

Photos courtesy of MediaQuest

opportunity came, I did my best.

That’s why it also feels good to play the role of Father Burgos.”

This historical drama, aside from three lead actors, brings together a powerhouse cast with outstanding actors and actresses who will make their mark in their special roles: Pascual, Canlas, Khalil Ramos, Ketchup Eusebio, Epy Quizon, Jaime Fabregas, Tommy Alejandrino, Neil Sese, Arnold Reyes, Nanding Josef, Paolo O’Hara, Sue Prado, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, Sheenly Gener, Elora Españo, and more.

The film is also the second collaboration of Diokno with multi-awarded cinematographer Carlo Canlas Mendoza.

Biopics such as ‘Heneral Luna,’ ‘Goyo,’ and ‘Quezon’s Game’ have artfully etched their stories into the cultural consciousness of their viewers which inspired a profound sense of patriotism and nationalism.

This 2023, “Gomburza” aims to give the three martyred priests the proper admiration and recognition they rightfully deserve. n

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Pechanga presents ‘Anne Curtis Luv-Anne The Comeback Concert 2023’ Julia Barretto

Photo from Instagram/@juliabarretto

Gerald approves Julia’s sexy calendar pictorial

By Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

ACTRESS Julia Barretto revealed that her boyfriend Gerald Anderson and her family approved her sexy pictorial for the Tanduay Calendar 2024.

During the question and answer at her launch this week, Julia said she makes it a point to discuss with her loved ones before accepting any sexy projects.

“You know everything that I do especially projects that require more skin, I really love to sit down and discuss it with my family and loved ones and one of things that I really love about my support system is that they are

so supportive in anything that I want to do and explore. I want to challenge myself. I want to push and push myself,” Julia said.

“I’m so grateful that I have a supportive family. I have supportive partner. I have a supportive friends. They are the reason why I am confident, I’m brave and I’m secured,” she added.

Julia said she is flattered to be Tanduay’s Calendar Girl for 2024.

“I am so honored,” she said.

“I am very flattered to have been chosen to be the face of Tanduay for 2024, aside from siyempre, kinabahan ako, but at the end of the day, I am really grateful,” she added. n

Miss Philippines Michelle Dee dazzles during the National Costume competition of the 72nd Miss Universe with her Philippine Air Force-inspired ensemble.

Photo from Instagram/@michelledee

‘It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s Philippines’ By iza igleSiaS ManilaTimes.net

SOAR high Pinay!

The spotlight is now on the Philippines’ very own Michelle Dee, who captivated audiences during the National Costume segment of the 72nd Miss Universe competition in El Salvador on Thursday, November 16.

The 28-year-old actress and beauty queen donned a spectacular airplane-inspired ensemble adorned with the vibrant colors of the Philippine flag. Crafted by the talented designer Michael Barassi, the concept behind the costume goes beyond aesthetics, aiming to promote tourism in the country and highlighting Dee’s role as an Air Force Reservist.

At the event, the reigning Miss Universe, R’Bonney Gabriel, enthusiastically introduced Michelle with the words, “It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s the Philippines!” Dee then gracefully embodied the costume’s aviation theme as she confidently strutted the runway. Initiating her walk, she engaged in presenting flight signals with her hands.

Dee shared in an Instagram post, eloquently describing her costume, “In the grand tapestry of the Philippines emerges a National costume as breathtaking as its archipelago.

Meet Sergeant Michelle Marquez Dee, Miss Universe Philippines, draped in the pride and heritage of the nation. Every thread intricately woven into the ‘solihiya’ pattern, an iconic design hailing from the tropical landscapes of the Philippines, embraces her form flawlessly— unveiling the narrative of the islands’ unity and artistry.”

Dee topped the costume with a captain’s hat, while the wings from her back carry the hues of the Philippine flag and depict a mural showcasing the country’s most stunning landscapes. As she paraded, the ensemble proudly displayed the official tourism slogan: #LoveThePhilippines.

“This National Costume represents the Philippines itself — resilient, radiant and ready to embrace the Universe!” Dee also said in the post.

Prior to the much-anticipated national costume competition, Dee also gave a sneak peek into her preparation by sharing glimpses of her training under the Philippine Air Force’s Basic Citizen Military Training.

The performance on stage certainly lived up to the expectations set by Dee herself just hours before the event.

Taking to Instagram, she teased pageant fans with the words, “Let’s give them another show, shall we?” And indeed, she did.n

Claudine says friendship...

PAGE B1 actress Jodi Sta. Maria, which prompted the press to ask Barretto if she was referring to the “Unbreak My Heart” star.

“Wala akong sinasabi (I did not name anyone),” Barretto replied, saying she would give no further details on the matter because they are already undergoing legal process.

“Lalabas at lalabas din ‘yon soon, very soon,” she declared, adding she will be holding a press conference for that. “Hindi rin naman matagal, malalaman niyo rin.” (It will come out very soon.

You’ll know about it.)

Barretto was also asked during the interview: “Mahirap ka bang mahalin?” (Is it hard to love you?)

“Actually, hindi. Sabi ko nga, hindi ko alam kung bakit hindi nagwork ‘yung marriage ko because hindi ako asawa na nagger; masaya akong asawa, mabuti akong asawa,” she said, noting how she’s still “traumatized” from her previous marriage.

(Actually, no. I also wonder why my marriage did not work out since I was not a nagger wife. I was a happy and good wife.)

Barretto and Santiago were married twice: first in May 2004 and then in March 2006. The former couple was seen together last May after they attended the graduation and recognition ceremonies of their children Sabina and Santino. n

IT has been 10 years since Anne Curtis’s last performance at Pechanga, and she’s ready to put on a show for her fans.

Pechanga Resort Casino proudly presents the “Anne Curtis Luv-Anne The Comeback Concert 2023” that will be held on Friday, December 1, at 8 p.m. and Saturday, December 2, at 8 p.m., at the Pechanga Theater.

Anne Curtis is a FilipinoAustralian actress, model, television host, entrepreneur and recording artist. She has been dubbed the “Multimedia Superstar” and is recognized as one of the most successful celebrities of the 21st century in the Philippines.

Curtis has received many accolades throughout her career, including two FAMAS awards, a Luna award, two Metro Manila Film Festival awards, and five PMPC Star awards for television.

In 2011, she released her debut studio album, “Annebisyosa,” and described it as “super fun” and “not serious.” In 2012, she went on her first solo concert tour, “Annebisyosa: No Other Concert World Tour.” For the concert tour, she won the award for Female Concert Performer of the Year at the 44th Box Office Entertainment Awards.

Hurry, you don’t want to miss this! Buy your tickets now from the Pechanga Box Office, or by

calling 888-810-8871, or visit www.pechanga.com.

Shows in the Pechanga Theater offer a comfortable and intimate concert experience.

With 1,200 seats in its theater, each show features state-ofthe-art, acoustically perfected sound, plus comfortable chairs, and an up-close view from every theater seat.

Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted the number one casino in the country by USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay.

Offering 5,400 of hottest slots, 152 table games, a 1,100 room and suite hotel, dining, luxury spa, and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com.

Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Facebook and on Twitter @ PechangaCasino.

(Advertising Supplement)

B4 NOVEMBER 18-21, 2023 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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Princess has no regrets quitting showbiz 30 years ago

by Nathalie tomada Philstar.com

PRINCESS Revilla has no regrets about stepping away from showbiz 34 years ago, and she doesn’t miss it either.

Despite her “artista pedigree,” she quickly realized a career in entertainment wasn’t her calling.

“I was only active in showbiz for one year,” the soft-spoken former actress recently shared in an intimate chat with some members of the print media.

“Napilitan lang yata ako. (I think I was just forced into it),” she quipped.

This was in 1989 when she was convinced to star in two films by Wilson Tieng’s Solar Films, including her lead-role debut in Jessa: Blusang Itim 2, where she was paired with Gabby Concepcion. The full movie about an “ugly duckling” who undergoes beauty transformation after putting on a “magical” undergarment is currently available on SolarFlixPh’s YouTube channel. Her other movie appearance that year was for the comedy Balbakwa, topbilled by the late comedy king Dolphy with other legendary comics Panchito and Babalu.

Why Princess left showbiz for good was because she settled down and focused on motherhood. She’s a mom of three — two boys, ages 33 and 31, and one girl who is 29.

“Ay wala rin naman (movie offers),” she said, acknowledging that her prolonged absence has made her unaccustomed to cameras and the movie press.

Which is OK because “iba na rin ang focus ko.”

“Hindi ko na siya (showbiz) naiisip.

Sila siguro talaga ang para dun. Politics and showbiz,” she further said, referring to her brother, Sen. Bong Revilla, and family members who ventured into the entertainment business.

She’s currently busy as the CEO of her

After starring in two films in 1989, including her lead role debut in Jessa: Blusang Itim 2, Princess Revilla left showbiz to focus on family life.

Philstar.com photo

own construction company. She also said she’s focused right now on continuing the charity and civic service efforts of her late parents — actor and senator Ramon Revilla Sr. and wife Azucena Mortel.

In 1999, Princess started the Azucena Mortel Bautista Memorial Foundation as a tribute to her mother, who passed away in 1998 in her 50s. “What I really learned from her is that ‘pag meron ka, i-share mo,” she shared.

The foundation carried out relief operations, medical and dental missions, educational grants and scholarships,

women and child welfare programs.

In 2021, amidst the pandemic, Princess was inspired to establish the Princess Revilla Foundation, Inc. (PRFI), aiming to extend the work initiated in her mother’s memory through the earlier foundation.

PRFI’s focus has been on empowering children and women from marginalized sectors through projects such as livelihood programs, as well as gift-giving initiatives, and mass feeding programs. Their official kickoff activity, which benefited 400 children and their parents, was held last Oct. 29.

Princess clarified that she has no intention of joining politics. “Even though I became an actress, I wasn’t exposed much,” the fourth of seven siblings said.

“I’m very shy. When people would visit our house, I usually stayed in my room. During parties, when I was still single, I stayed inside the house. I just peeked through the window. I ran away when there were other people. I felt embarrassed. That’s why I’m not fit for showbiz, I’m not fit for politics.”

None of Princess’ children pursued a career in showbiz; however, one has entered politics. They have all completed businessrelated degrees. The eldest, Anton, once tried acting, but she advised him to explore a different field. “I told him, ‘Anak, try another field,’ and he understood,” she shared. Anton is now actively involved in her construction business.

Her second son, Igi, serves as a city councilor in Imus, Cavite. Although Princess initially hoped he wouldn’t join politics, she recognized his genuine interest, saying, “My second son, I initially didn’t want him in politics, but it seems to really be in his blood.”

Princess’ only daughter, Angelica, has no inclination toward showbiz, but found her own career path in the beauty industry.

Princess’ constant career advice for her PAGE B6

Marian Rivera and Heart Evangelista Photos from Instagram/@marianrivera, @iamhearte

Marian declares after renewed friendship with Heart: ‘My heart is happy’ By aNNe Pasajol Inquirer.net

MARIAN Rivera-Dantes said she is at peace after she finally rekindled her friendship with fellow actress Heart Evangelista, saying it happened in “God’s perfect time.”

Rivera opened up about their renewed relationship during an interview with entertainment reporter Nelson Canlas for “24 Oras” on Wednesday, Nov. 15.

“Ang naramdaman ko talaga ay my heart is happy, tapos nando’n ako sa peaceful na finally, in God’s perfect time,” the celebrity mom said. (I feel that my heart is really happy, and that [everything is] finally peaceful in God’s perfect time.)

Rivera also disclosed that it was their mutual friends and families who helped the actresses reconnect with each other.

Ang naramdaman ko talaga ay my heart is happy, tapos nando’n ako sa peaceful na finally, in God’s perfect time,” the celebrity mom said. (I feel

that my heart is really happy, and that [everything is] finally peaceful in God’s perfect time.)

Rivera also disclosed that it was their mutual friends and families who helped the actresses reconnect with each other.

(Please let us keep private whatever we have talked about because it’s too personal for us. I feel happy that we have conversations now, and that we still have communication until now.)

Evangelista, for her part, earlier underscored that she and Rivera “have always liked each other” and that their supposed rivalry was only caused by “people around [them] that make things bad.”

Talks of rekindled friendship between Evangelista and Rivera, who have had personal differences with each other dating back to 2011, arose among fans in October. This was after netizens noticed that the two actresses have followed each other on Instagram, and even commented on each other’s posts. n

Melai Cantiveros topbills the action-comedy Ma’am Chief: Shakedown in Seoul, the first film venture of Pulp Studios.

Melai topbills actioncomedy with cameos of K-drama, K-pop stars

By Nathalie tomada Philstar.com

MELAI Cantiveros takes the lead in the action-comedy Ma’am Chief: Shakedown in Seoul, the first-ever film venture of veteran concert producer Pulp.

In the film, she plays a police officer who is in hot pursuit of a criminal all the way to Seoul in Korea.

The comedienne-TV host is joined in the cast by Alora Sasam, Bernadette Allyson Estrada, Dustine Mayores, Enzo Almario, Jennica Garcia, Karylle Tatlonghari, Manel Sevidal, Pepe Herrera, Sela Guia, and more.

The film features special cameos by K-drama and K-pop stars such as Do Ji Han, Lee Seung Gi, Rolling Quartz, and Yuju.

“Naiyak ako kasi sa totoo lang ito ang project na talagang blessing ni Lord. Yung alam mo yung project ko na bida na ako, pressured ako, gusto ko talagang mabalik yung ginasto sa amin pero hindi ganun ang pressure (dito) eh. Pressured ako kasi parang matatapos na yung bonding namin. Yung staff and crew, sobrang close talaga namin.

Itong movie na ‘to, si Lord talaga ang nag-align ng mga stars,” Melai recently told The STAR during a post-mediacon interview at Hilton Manila in Pasay City. (“I cried because, to be honest, this project feels like a real blessing from the Lord. You see, in my past roles where I was the main character, I felt pressure to perform well and make sure the money spent on us was worthwhile. But this time, the pressure is different. It’s not about being the main character; it’s about feeling sad that our time together is ending soon. Our staff and crew are like family to me. It’s like the Lord arranged for this movie to happen.”)

Ma’am Chief is like a dream come true for Melai, who is a big fan of K-drama.

She shared, “Fan talaga ako ng K-drama, yung mga anak ko, mga K-pop, mga Blackpink man sila. So, Korean stars, sobrang fan talaga ako kaya ‘di ko na-expect na naka-shoot ako sa Korea at nadala ko pa ang pamilya ko.” (“I’m a real K-drama fan, and my kids are big fans of K-pop, like Blackpink. So, I’m a huge fan of Korean stars. That’s why I never expected to film in Korea and even bring my family along.)

She continued, “Naiyak baya ako one time nag-shooting kami, so natapos na, pauwi ako sa taxi, naiyak ako kasi lumipat ako sa hotel ng mga anak ko. Lord, grabe talaga kayo, kumbaga, sino ba naman ako, pero binigyan mo ako ng ganito. Thank you so much Lord, ibabalik ko talaga sayo lahat ng glory dito sa movie na ito.” (“I cried one time. After shooting, I was on my way back to the hotel where my kids were staying. I couldn’t believe it, Lord. It’s like, who am I to receive this, but you gave me this. Thank you so much, Lord. I’ll really give back all the glory for this movie.”)

Melai was the personal choice of producer Happee Sy-Go, PULP COO, who told Melai to just be her wacky self in the film.

The actress recalled how “Inang Reyna,” as the concert promoter is being fondly called in the K-pop community, having pioneered Korean artists’ concerts and fan meets in the Philippines, reached out to her for the film.

“Sinabi nila, parang naramdaman lang ni Inang Reyna na mukha akong tanga hahaha. No, parang nararamdaman niya na happy-golucky ako, na magagampanan ko talaga. ‘Wag lang daw ako mag in-character. Ako daw talaga, no effort required.”

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Pastor’s Notes ReveRend Rodel G. BalaGtas GOD has created each of us for a purpose, grounded in Christian principles of knowing, loving, and serving Him. But He didn’t stop there; He has endowed us with many gifts to fulfill that purpose. He has given us a mind, a body, and a spirit to live out our calling in life. And at the end of our journey, He will ask us to give an account of how we used those gifts and fulfilled our purpose.

This Sunday’s Gospel presents us with this essential message, one that we have heard multiple times before. However, this message is particularly relevant in the present context of our lives. We are living in a troubled world, where wars, hatred among races, and a lack of leadership in society weigh on us heavily.

God’s purpose for us Can employees suffer retaliation without discrimination?

Now, more than ever, the Lord calls us to work towards a more peaceful, united world and a strong, faithful Church.

We must be conscious of the urgent need to instill faith in the lives of our children, youth, and families.

God calls us to bear witness to the truth. It is through our loving relationship with Jesus Christ and our adherence to His teachings of love, mercy, justice, kindness, empathy, and compassion that we can heal our broken world.

Thus, we are urged, including our children, to become instruments of healing in a world plagued by hatred, racism, and division. It is crucial that our children learn the values of peacemaking and respect for the dignity of every individual from their early years of education.

We can demonstrate this call for healing, peace, and unity in our diverse parish community.

It starts with intentional and genuine smiles to those sitting next to us in the pews, and to

everyone we meet at church and in our neighborhood.

God’s assessment of our lives on earth is not solely based on how well we used our gifts; it is about how we treated our families, friends, neighbors, and others with love, charity, kindness, and mercy.

Therefore, let us strive to live lives that embody these virtues, whether it is in using our talents to serve others, acting with love and kindness towards those in our lives, or actively participating in building a more peaceful and united world. Each of us has a vital role to play in fulfilling our purpose and bringing God’s love to a world in desperate need of healing. *** 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. *** Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

Jane De Leon proves naysayers wrong with two new films post-Darna

by MJ Marfori Philstar.com

IF it wasn’t enough that close to 100 press members attended the grand media conference to show their support for the Philippine cinema’s longestrunning horror franchise, Shake Rattle and Roll (SRR) Extreme, I don’t know what is.

With Regal Films’ comeback not making it to the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), it got an earlier playdate which is Nov. 29. Not hiding her disappointment, Regal’s head Roselle Monteverde has chosen to move forward with confidence in SRR’s legacy in the entertainment industry.

“May part na disappointed ako, but you need to move on.

Dito natin unang na visualize iyong ilang Filipino mythology and creatures such as the aswang at tyanak. Now, I really make sure that this is for the cinemas whether or not it will be shown at the Metro Manila Film Festival,” she said.

One of the stars, Iza Calzado,

EMPLOYMENT

Shake in terms of pop culture, hindi mo maitatanggi. Whatever the playdate, it will continue to draw in viewers.”

Besides Iza, her co-Darna star Jane De Leon is also one of the film’s leads. She was so beautiful in a pink ensemble and silver hair accessory when she graced the event, dispelling naysayers on social media that there is no big project for her after her Darna stint.

Recently, Jane also attended the red carpet premiere of Five Breakups and A Romance, where there was a TikTok video of her that went viral for insinuating that she walked straight to the cinema without fan clamor and interaction.

Jane admitted that the video reached her and shared her After her Darna stint, Jane De Leon will play reaction:“Nakita ko iyon, eh a lead role in Shake, Rattle and Roll Extreme, iyong kumakalat. Hindi iyon which is set to hit cinemas on Nov. 29. ang full video. Hindi nila alam Philstar.com photo pumunta ako sa mga fans, also had this to say, “It would nakihalubilo pa ako sa mga fans. have been nice if it was part of Ang masasabi ko lang do not the MMFF because comeback believe social media.”

Jane is a self-proclaimed siya ng Shake, Rattle & Roll.

Iyong cultural impact kasi ng PAGE B7

EMPLOYMENT

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights atty. C. Joe sayas, JR. ERNIE Flores worked for about two years as a school principal for the Palo Verde Union School District in Tulare County, California. The students within the school district are predominantly Hispanic and Spanish was their first language. During Flores’ tenure as principal, student enrollment at the school increased.

No one on the school board expressed any problem with his job performance.

In early 2018, Flores complained to the school board that it was discriminating against a job applicant on the basis of the applicant’s race.

He was terminated in February 2018.

The reason for his termination was that there were “anonymous” complaints that he spoke Spanish to students and played Latin music throughout the school during breaks. One complaint read, “Also, someone please remind him we are in America and that if he’s going to play music that we would like it to be in English and not in Spanish.”

Another complaint stated, “Morning announcements by Flores continue with ‘mijo/ mija’ and it needs to stop already.”

Flores sued the Palo Verde Union School District, alleging discrimination and whistleblower retaliation. He sought recovery for past and future loss of earnings and past and future emotional pain and suffering. Flores claimed that he suffered from emotional distress and had to switch careers as a result.

Flores contended that he

was discriminated against for speaking Spanish to the students and playing Latin music and that the School District retaliated against him for complaining about a school board applicant’s failure to hire due to racial discrimination.

The employer argued that Flores was terminated for non-discriminatory business reasons related to his job performance, that the school board had lost trust in him, and that his termination had nothing to do with him speaking Spanish to his students.

the jury may have believed that Flores was terminated because the school board had indeed lost trust in him, which is a legitimate business reason.

However, the jury concluded that Flores suffered retaliation.

Retaliation exists where an employee engaged in a “protected activity” and was then “punished” by a firing, a demotion, a reprimand, etc. for engaging in that activity.

A “protected activity” includes an employee’s “reasonable” and “good faith” act of opposing a practice which is forbidden by law (e.g. discrimination).

In the case of Flores, his “protected activity” was his complaint that the school board engaged in discrimination in its failure to hire an applicant. The jury believed that by terminating him after the complaint (even though he had no prior performance issues and was, in fact, performing well), the employer engaged in retaliatory conduct against him. *** 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 Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. welcomes inquiries about this topic. All inquiries are confidential and at no cost. You can contact the office at (818) 291-0088 or visit www.joesayaslaw.com. [For more than 25 years, C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. successfully recovered wages and other monetary damages for thousands of employees and consumers. He was named Top Labor & Employment Attorney in California by the Daily Journal, consistently selected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is a past Presidential Awardee for Outstanding Filipino Overseas.]

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Discrimination exists if an employee is fired, demoted or disciplined based on the employee’s protected characteristic (in this case, Flores’ race/ethnicity). However, the jury was not convinced that enough evidence was shown to indicate that the employer targeted Flores because of his race/ethnicity.

The case went to trial. The jury did not find that Flores experienced discrimination but found that he was retaliated against for complaining about discrimination. Flores was awarded $3,625,752 in damages.

Why did the employee win on retaliation but not on discrimination? These are two different and separate employment violations.

Discrimination exists if an employee is fired, demoted or disciplined based on the employee’s protected characteristic (in this case, Flores’ race/ethnicity).

However, the jury was not convinced that enough evidence was shown to indicate that the employer targeted Flores because of his race/ethnicity. In other words,

EMPLOYMENT

FOR RENT

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Will I have to pay spousal support if I file for divorce?

Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes

Miss Universe Ukraine 2023 Angelina Usanova

Angelina Usanova via Instagram

‘Dreaming of sky without missiles’: Ukraine makes Miss Universe 2023 national costume statement

By Jan milo Severo Philstar.com

MISS Universe Ukraine 2023 Angelina Usanova made a statement at the national costume show on Friday, November 17 in El Salvador.

Angelina walked the runway wearing a sky blue gown while holding a golden baby.

The show’s host said that Ukraine’s costume is called “Mother Protector.”

In her Instagram account, Angelina said that “children do not start wars, but they are the ones who are unable to defend themselves.”

“This costume is our dedication to the great, sacred, and unconditional love of a mother and the defenselessness of children in the face of war.

“Mothers all over Ukraine are begging and dreaming of a sky without missiles. They pray for the lives of their children, who are mercilessly taken away by the war.

“We dedicate our costume to all mothers of Ukraine who protect their children, refugee mothers, who raise kids without a husband who protect the country at this time, to mothers who lost their children - young or adult - in the war.”

According to Miss Universe Ukraine, the blue fabric of the costume is a symbol of a peaceful, quiet sky without rockets. White and milky colors are symbols of peace and blue and yellow are the colors of the flag of Ukraine.

“The golden elements on the costume are the armor that symbolizes the strength of every Ukrainian mother who protects her children.

“The body of a little angel is a symbol of the priceless life of every child.

“This costume was created to remind the international community about the events in Ukraine and the need for all states to respect international law and the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations,” she said. n

Vice Ganda opens up on reconciliation with Billy Crawford, Christmas plans

By Charmie Joy Pagulong Philstar.com

VICE Ganda “felt so good” following his reconciliation with former It’s Showtime cohost Billy Crawford.

The latter said sorry to Vice, Madlang people and the Kapamilya audience when he appeared as a guest in the main host’s Magpasikat performance

during the Nov. 9 episode. Billy was with his son Amari and wife Coleen Garcia.

“We accidentally bumped into each other a couple of weeks ago and it was really magical. It was very sincere.

Wala lang. Nagkita lang kami and then Coleen said magbati na kayong dalawa,” recalled Vice on the sidelines of Araneta City’s Christmas Tree Lighting

last week. He was one of the special guests and performers at the annual lighting ceremony.

“It wasn’t forced,” Vice stated. “Bigla lang kaming nagkita and we just felt it. ‘Let’s just hug each other.’ Right after that, pagkahiwalay namin, pagsakay ko ng kotse, we texted each other immediately and it continued. We talked every PAGE B7

THE purpose of spousal support is not defined by the legislature in that its purpose varies according to the facts and circumstances of each case. The facts and circumstances of a particular case may be such which call for no spousal support, or for support for a very limited period of time, with the purpose to assist the supported spouse to “get back on his or her feet” as a single person, or until community property is distributed. On the other hand, the facts and circumstances of another case may call for support for an extended period of time, perhaps until death of the supported spouse, the purpose for which to provide assistance to one who cannot support himself.

The two situations mentioned hereinabove are extreme cases, on opposite ends of the spectrum.

Quite obviously, the facts and circumstances in a particular case may be such which call for some amount of support for some period of time, though not until death of the supported spouse. For example, the court may order support for that period of time required for the supported spouse to obtain or complete an education, to allow the supported spouse to take care of the children until they

reach an age where a return to employment would be more feasible, or to become selfsupporting within a reasonable time.

Although the use of standard guidelines based on income is encouraged in the award of temporary support, such guidelines cannot be used in awarding permanent spousal support. As indicated hereinabove, the award of support is in large part based on the facts and circumstances of the particular case.

In determining spousal support, the court considers numerous factors, set forth in Family Code Sec. 4320. They include: 1) The extent to which the earning capacity of each party is sufficient to maintain the standard of living established during the marriage, 2) The extent to which the supported party contributed to the attainment of an education, training, a career position, or a license by the supporting party, 3) The ability of the supporting party to pay spousal support, taking into account the supporting party’s earning capacity, earned and unearned income, assets, and standard of living, 4) The needs of each party based on the standard of living established during the marriage, 5)The obligations and assets, including the separate property, of each party, 6) The duration of the marriage, 7) The ability of the supported party to engage in gainful employment without unduly interfering with the interests of dependent children in the custody of the party, and 8) The age and health of the parties.

The factors set forth hereinabove are only several of the many factors the court will consider in deciding the issue of spousal support. In that the amount and duration of an award is largely based on the facts and circumstances of the case, it is advised that one who is requesting support, or is opposing a request for support, obtain experienced counsel, who will be able to present the facts and circumstances in the best light possible. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist.

He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association.

He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com Visit our website at kenreyeslaw.com.

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Princess has no regrets quitting showbiz 30 years...

PAGE B4 children is pretty straightforward: “They need to be hardworking and down-to-earth because that’s how our parents raised us.”

In the same media interview, Princess said that there are “60 plus” of them acknowledged children of the former actor and senator, not the reported 80, which she finds “exaggerated.” She knows all her siblings, and they get along well.

“Before Daddy passed away (in 2020),

everything was settled. We’re all close. No conflicts. Thank God!” she said, pointing out that it was their father who encouraged them to accept each other because they needed to support one another when he was no longer around.

“That’s how we are. So for me, it’s my commitment to Daddy. I told him, when he was still alive, that I would help my nephews and nieces. I can do it because it’s my promise. No one else will help but us.” n

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Jane De Leon proves...

PAGE B5 introvert, as her friends and workmates know. This is why, at times, she is being misconstrued as snobbish but in reality, she explained, she is just in her own little bubble minding her own thing.

“Hindi ko kailangan mag-adjust because this is me. Knowing myself, marami naman nakaka-alam na introvert ako. Hindi sa nireason out ko na introvert ako, but I love my fans so much and they know that that is why I appreciate how they protect me at kung paano nila ako mahalin,” she said.

Putting that rumor about Jane to rest, there’s another Regal film in which she is part of. That is How To Be A Good Wife by Jun Robles Lana. It will be the comeback of Jane’s tandem with Darna co-star Janella Salvador. There’s a teaser of the story conference on social media that quickly escalated into a trending topic on X (formerly Twitter), thanks to the JaneNella fans.

“Nagulat nga kami, tapos sabi sa akin nung manager ko, trending na kayo. Sabi ko, ‘Wow,’” Jane said and added, “Tricky iyong title, noh? Puro ito twist ng twist at more twist pa! Hahaha!”

So, how did the project come about? Well, it was as random as it could get, according to Jane, “Super biglaan, because of the ABSCBN ball, Tita Roselle (Monteverde) saw us, tapos sabi niya, ‘Gawa tayo (ng) movie!’… Why not, diba? Nakakatuwa lang nag-post din si direk Jun Lana, sumabog agad sa Twitter.”

But before that, watch Shake, Rattle and Roll Extreme, which will be shown in cinemas on Nov. 29. n

With co-stars Jennica Garcia and Alora Sasam in a scene from the film.

Melai topbills...

PAGE B4 (“They said Inang Reyna somehow felt that I looked a bit silly [laughs]. No, it’s more like she sensed that I’m easygoing and can genuinely play the role. She just advised me not to act in character, to be myself, effortless.”)

“Pero may acting naman hahaha! But na-amaze naman ako na ako naisip niya from seven years ago. She messaged me on Instagram and tapos pinahanap ako. Pag-message ko sa kanya, I said, seryoso po kayo? Totoo po ba na ako? ‘Oo, bukas meeting na.’ So, wala ng audition. (“But there’s still acting involved, haha! I was amazed that she thought of me seven years ago. She messaged me on Instagram and had someone look for me. When I messaged her back, I asked, ‘Are you serious?

Is it really me?’ She said, ‘Yes, we have a meeting tomorrow.’ So, no audition.”)

“Sabi ng asawa niya, kung ‘di ko daw tatanggapin, ibang movie ang gagawin nila. Hindi ako papalitan, ibang movie daw.

Ako talaga gusto nila. Sabi ni Sir Vernon (Go), English kasi yung asawa niya, ‘If you don’t accept…’ I will accept hahaha!” (“Her husband said, ‘If you don’t accept, they’ll make a different movie. They won’t replace me; they really want me.’

Sir Vernon (Go) said, his husband is English-speaking, ‘If you don’t accept...’ I will accept, haha!”)

Without revealing specific figures, Melai acknowledged that the talent fee was “bongga (great)” and so were the shoot locations. She said they traveled to Cebu, Davao, GenSan, and

stayed in impressive hotels both here and in South Korea.

Fans should also look out for the exciting cameos of Korean actors and idols, like Lee Seung Gi. “Grabe si Lee Seung Gi, he smelled nice even from a distance. We felt a bit shy when he walked in like the real ‘oppa’ that he is. You’ll melt like ice cream when you see him. We were really amazed by Lee Seung Gi,” Melai said.

She also gets a Korean leading man (or is it leading men?) and noted that their Korean production counterpart had previously worked on hit K-dramas such as Crash Landing On You. “I really thank the Lord for this project. You really won’t regret the P300 (ticket price). Why? They’ve done an excellent job, and they didn’t skimp on it.”

After her experience with a film project that showcases the collaboration between Filipino and Korean productions, she expressed openness to working on similar projects in the future.

And if she ever gets an offer, she quipped, “Kailangan sabihan ko sila ng magdasal muna. Kasi baka ‘di sila seryoso. Baka naman nabudol sila. Pero sobrang open uy. Pero itong Ma’am Chief sobrang thank you Lord, binigay sa akin. Kahit ito lang no problem na ako.” (“They need to pray first before approaching me. Because they might not be serious, or maybe they were just fooled. But, I’m very open to it. But this Ma’am Chief project, I’m extremely grateful that the Lord gave it to me, and I’m perfectly content with it.”) n

Vice Ganda opens up on reconciliation with Billy...

PAGE B6 day. Ang sarap sa pakiramdam.

It felt so good.”

In November 2021, Vice Ganda and Billy unfollowed each other on Instagram, sparking rumors of misunderstanding between the close friends. The departure of It’s Showtime director Bobet Vidanes to its rival program on TV5’s Lunch Out Loud (later renamed as Tropang LOL), with Billy as the main host of the program, further fueled speculations of their rift.

Billy transferred to TV5 to host LOL and Masked Singer Pilipinas in September 2020.

Quoting Billy, Vice Ganda shared that it has been three years that they haven’t talked to each other. “But in between those three years, there were attempts na mag-usap, na maayos yung hindi maayos,” he added.

“It wasn’t the right time yet.

I said let’s wait (for the right time) … Let’s not get affected by the noise. The decision should come from us and not from other people.”

The It’s Showtime host also took the opportunity to expressed his gratitude to the supporters of the show for 14 years. “Thank you to all the madlang people, the whole Philippines who showed their support at sumubaybay sa isang buong taon ng It’s Showtime.

Thank you very much. Happy anniversary to us all.”

As usual, Vice will be celebrating Christmas with his

Vice Ganda leads the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Times Square Food Park in Araneta City.

The TV host is joined by Araneta City officials, Miss International 2023 third runner-up Nicole Borromeo, and Bb. Pilipinas 2023 Queens. Photo from Araneta City’s Facebook page

entire family and he also plans to go on vacation abroad with them. His Christmas wish is “peace for everyone.”

“It sounds cliché but at this point in our lives, that’s what we need. Peace and healing for everyone,” he offered.

“Every year, whatever happens, tuloy-tuloy, no one can stop us from celebrating Christmas. And I hope in this season, manatiling payapa ang mga puso natin, manatiling malulusog tayong lahat and let’s keep that smile on our faces.”

“Let’s finish the celebration of Christmas first and yung next year, tsaka natin siya harapin,” he replied when queried about his projects for next year.

“There’s so much happening

around so let’s finish this year first peacefully.”

Meanwhile, Vice led the 100foot Christmas tree lighting at the Times Square Food Park in Araneta City last week, along with Araneta City officials, Miss International 2023 third runner-up Nicole Borromeo, and Bb. Pilipinas 2023 Queens.

He rendered an energetic performance of Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance With Somebody and Bebe Rexha’s The Way I Are (Dance With Somebody) on Araneta stage.

He was joined by Seth Fedelin, P-pop boy group VXON, It’s Showtime kids, Lyka Estrella, and Taylor Sheesh. The event was hosted by Jeremy Glinonga and Ana Ramsey.

It has already been a tradition

of Vice to come back to Araneta for the annual Christmas tree lighting. “My Christmas is not complete kung hindi ako kasama dito sa tree lighting ceremony sa Araneta,” he told the event-goers.

“First of all, Christmas is very special to me and this Christmas tree lighting event in Araneta is also special to me.

So many people are coming here to witness this event. And I want to be present here (as well).

“I want to be one of the madlang people in this beautiful ceremony of lighting the Christmas tree. Ito talaga ang naghuhudyat lalo ng nagsusumigaw ang kaligayahan ng mga Pilipino dahil magpaPasko na.” n

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