111922 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

SACRAMENTO — California Attorney General Rob Bonta sailed to victory in the Nov. 8 election, riding his progressive record on reproductive rights, gun control, and social justice reform. As he charts a course for his next four years, the 50-year-old Democrat wants to target racial discrimination in health care, including through an investigation of software programs and decision-making tools used by hospitals to treat patients.

Bonta, the first Filipino American to serve as the state’s top prosecutor, asked 30 hospital CEOs in August for a list of the commercial software programs their facilities use to support clinical decisions, schedule operating rooms, and guide billing practices. In exchange, he offered them confidentiality. His goal, Bonta told KHN, is to identify algorithms that may direct more attention and resources to white patients than to minorities, widening racial disparities in health care access, quality, and outcomes.

“Unequal access to our health care system needs to be combated and reversed, not carried forward and propagated, and algorithms have the power to do either,” Bonta said.

VP Harris to discuss South China Sea with Marcos, Duterte-Carpio during PH trip

by KLARIZE MEDENILLA AJPress

Kamala Harris: No better economic partner for Indo-Paci c than US

MANILA — Countries in the Indo-Pacific can always count on the United States, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris stressed on Friday, November 18 as China's influence in the region grows.

At the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO summit in Thailand, Harris said that strengthening U.S.’ economic relationships in the region and partnering with the private sector is a top priority for Washington.

“Our message is clear: The United States has an enduring economic commitment to the Indo-Pacific, one that is measured not in years, but in decades, and generations. And there is no better economic partner for this region  than the United States of America,” Harris said.

“America is a strong partner to the economies and companies of this region because America is and will remain a major engine of global growth, reinforced by our administration’s approach, which has been: record job creation, a revitalized manufacturing sector, a

FILIPINO American

and Jalen

are playing huge factors in the country’s interest in the NBA.

Ramez Sheikh, NBA Asia’s managing director, said in a roundtable interview on Wednesday, November 16 that both players, who are of Filipino descent, are big elements in the Philippines’ growing interest in the league.

“We’ve got two really strong players. Jordan Clarkson from the Jazz, doing exceptional work and Jalen Green from the Rockets and he’s having a great season so I’m proud of them that they’re showing up and taking care of business,” said Sheikh.

“We got a tremendous social following in the Philippines. Just about 15 million Filipinos follow our local and global social handles which is tremendous for us,” he added.

Green, who visited the country in August for a promotional tour, is averaging 21.7

by CATHERINE S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net

The

In a statement, the DFA said the two leaders "agreed that maritime issues do not define the totality of Philippines-China relations."

The DFA said both Marcos and Xi also "reaffirmed

of a Code of Conduct on the South China Sea to help manage differences

by KLARIZE MEDENILLA AJPress

LAST week, the Asian Journal reported which Filipino candidates in races across Southern California would win their races in the 2022 midterm election.

With nearly all the results accounted for, several races across SoCal have been called with many Filipino incumbents, community leaders, and first-time candidates winning their races.

As of Friday, Nov. 18, several Filipino candidates across Southern California were successful in their races. Because of delays in the final counts — due to the high volume of mail-in votes — the final counts weren’t

made until several days after Election Day.

First-time elected officials Ollie Cantos of West Covina and Ditas Yamane of National City each won their respective city council races. Yamane made history by being the second Filipino ever to win a city-wide seat in National City.

Artesia Mayor Melissa Ramoso — who was first elected as a city council member in 2018 and appointed to the mayor’s seat in 2021 — was re-elected to her post as mayor. Similarly, Phil Bacera of Santa Ana City Council, Mayor Jed Leano of Claremont City Council, and Arleen Rojas of Carson City Council all retained their respective seats.

Robredo discusses PH ght vs disinformation at US forum: We made a lot of mistakes

by JEAN MANGALUZ Inquirer.net

Robredo said her camp started to correct fake news three years into her term as Philippine vice president, but “it was too late.”

“We committed a lot of mistakes in responding to disinformation. It started really

bad in 2016, when I won as Vice President of the Philippines. But the first mistake committed was that my initial stance at the time was, ‘they’re fake news, don’t dignify’. We thought it was the right thing to do,” she said in the forum held November 17 in the United States (November 18 in the Philippines).

“It was like, we were trying to correct but the fact-checking was just being heard in our own echo chambers because there’s a separate reality already. It’s like we could not penetrate into the cells created because of disinformation,” Robredo

Jordan Clarkson, Jalen Green heighten Filipinos’ interest in NBA

STUDY STROLL. The rich history of Rizal Park in Manila attracts the attention of a tourist on Friday, Nov. 18. Despite various malls and other forms of entertainment, parks still bring in the crowd because they are free and open, a source of comfort after the country’s bout with the COVID-19 pandemic in the past two years. PNA photo by Rey Baniquet

Attorney Gen. Rob Bonta investigates hospital algorithms for racial bias

Marcos, Xi support early conclusion of South China Sea code

Former Vice President Leni Robredo talks about disinformation in the Philippines at the Obama Foundation’s Democracy Forum on November 17, 2022 (US time). Screenshot from the Obama Foundation’s Facebook video

PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping have reaffirmed their support for the early conclusion of the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea "to help manage differences and regional tensions," the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Friday, November 18.

two leaders reaffirmed this commitment during their bilateral meeting

on the sidelines of the 29th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand Thursday, November 17.

their support for the early conclusion

MANILA — Former Vice President Leni Robredo has spoken about the fight against disinformation in the Philippines during the Obama Foundation’s Democracy Forum, even acknowledging they made mistakes in addressing so-called fake news.

players Jordan Clarkson

Green

ON Monday, Nov. 21, United States Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to meet with Philippine President Bongbong Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio. According to a White House senior official, Harris

will attend a bilateral conference with Marcos centering around “strengthening our security alliance and economic relationship,” focusing on reaffirming “peace and stability in the South China Sea.”

“The Vice President will also commit to working more closely with the Philippines to strengthen our economic partnership and investment ties,” the

White House official said in a press call on Tuesday, Nov. 15. “We anticipate there will be deliverables and new initiatives on this front, as well, related to the digital economy and upskilling and accelerating the transition to clean energy.”

The vice president is also scheduled to meet with “civil society activists,” and she is to attend a town  PAGE A2

Arleen Rojas

Ollie Cantos

Stephanie Loredo

Melissa Ramoso

VP Harris to discuss South China Sea...

PAGE A1

hall conversation with young Filipina community leaders to discuss “empowering women and girls.”

“This will be the first event of its kind she has done overseas since taking office, and it’ll be a good opportunity for direct engagement with the Filipino people, underscoring the strong people-to-people ties with the Philippines and historic ties,” the White House said.

Harris is also set to visit Puerto Princesa in Palawan, according to a senior White House official, where she will “have a chance to meet with local communities and fisher communities impacted by the climate crisis and environmental challenges.”

The official also acknowledged recent protests over what the Philippines has claimed are illegal fishing activities by China.

“I think by going there, she’ll demonstrate our support and solidarity for the rule of maritime law,” they said.

Harris’s Philippine visit will follow her highly anticipated visit to Taiwan, which Philippine officials say will likely come up during her meeting with Marcos. Beijing’s efforts to bring Taiwan — a self-governing island nation — under Chinese control have made recent headlines.

According to news reports from the region, tension in the Taiwan Strait increased following House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taipei in August.

Neighboring countries that are a part of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), including the Philippines, argue that if China uses force to keep Taiwan under its control, the entire region will be affected.

“What happens in Taiwan…will affect the entire ASEAN region. If there is a conflict that happens in Taiwan, nobody is going to be spared. The Philippines is part of this whole equation,” Ambassador of the Philippines to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez told Reuters this week.

Harris’s visit follows a lengthy visit between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Indonesia, where the two discussed the Taiwan situation. 

Kamala Harris: No better economic partner for...

PAGE A1

booming clean energy sector, resilient consumer spending, and unprecedented small business creation,” she added.

The American vice president also pointed out that Washington is “more engaged with the Indo-Pacific than we have ever been.”

“We have reinforced our defense and deterrence

commitments, as well as our security presence, a longstanding security presence that has enabled the region to develop and prosper for more than 70 years.

The Biden-Harris Administration has also joined with allies and partners to uphold international rules and norms,” Harris said.

“We have infused new energy and leadership into our unrivaled network of global alliances and

partnerships,” she added. Harris will meet with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte when she visits the Philippines next week.  She will also travel to Palawan in a historic visit to demonstrate America’s commitment to the rule of law in the South China Sea. Palawan is adjacent to the Spratly Islands.  (Gaea Katreena Cabico/Philstar.com)

FRESH. Varieties of fruits and vegetables are available for less than their usual prices during the launch of the “Kadiwa ng Pasko” caravan at the Verdant Covered Court of Barangay Pamplona 3 in Las Piñas City on Friday, Nov. 18. The Kadiwa project allows farmers, fisherfolk, and other small business owners to sell their produce to a bigger market.

PNA photo by Alfred Frias

Attorney Gen. Rob Bonta investigates hospital...

PAGE A1

It’s too early to know what Bonta will find, and his office will not name the hospitals involved. The California Hospital Association said in a statement that such bias “has absolutely no place in medical treatment provided to any patient in any care setting” and declined to comment further.

Advocates have high hopes for what Bonta will find — and for the next four years. “We expect to see a lot more from him in this full term,” said Ron Coleman Baeza, managing director of policy for the California Pan-Ethnic Health Network. “There is much more work to do.”

Last year, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Bonta as attorney general after Xavier Becerra left the position to join the Biden administration as secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In the Nov. 8 election, which won him his first full term, Bonta faced Republican challenger Nathan Hochman, a former federal prosecutor who campaigned on prosecuting violent criminals and pulling the deadly synthetic opioid fentanyl off the streets. In contrast, Bonta advocated for gun control and decriminalizing lower-level drug offenses, and in January advised law enforcement officials not to prosecute women for murder when a fetus dies, even if their drug use contributed to the death.

In unofficial results, Bonta had about 59% of the statewide vote, compared with 41% for Hochman.

Bonta, formerly a state legislator representing the East Bay, will be eligible to run for a second full term, which could allow him to serve for nearly 10 years.

His wife, Democratic state Assembly member Mia Bonta, was among the public officials who discussed their abortion experiences after a leaked draft of a U.S. Supreme Court opinion that was published in May revealed the justices would likely repeal Roe v. Wade. After they did, the attorney general threatened legal action against local jurisdictions that tried to adopt abortion bans.

Bonta called health care a right for all Californians and said he wanted to help people of color and low-income communities get more access to doctors and treatments, as well as better care. “It’s something I’ve been actively working on as an elected official my entire career, and even before that,” said Bonta, whose father helped organize health clinics for Central Valley farmworkers.

But health equity remains an elusive goal, even as it has become a catchphrase among advocates, researchers, politicians, and health care executives. And as with most aspects of the state’s mammoth health care system, progress comes slowly.

The Newsom administration, for example, will require managedcare plans that sign new Medicaid contracts to hire a chief equity officer and pledge to reduce health disparities, including in pediatric and maternal care. The state’s Medicaid program, known as Medi-Cal, serves nearly 15 million people — most of whom are people of color. But those changes won’t come until 2024, at the earliest.

State lawmakers are also trying to minimize racial discrimination through legislation. In 2019, for example, they passed a law that mandates implicit bias training for health care providers serving pregnant women. Black women are three times as likely to die from having a baby as white women.

In recent years, researchers started warning that racial discrimination was baked into the diagnostic algorithms that doctors use to guide their treatment decisions. One model predicted a lower rate of success for vaginal births among Black and Hispanic women who previously had a cesarean delivery than among white women, but failed to take into account patients’ marital status and insurance type, both of which can affect the success rate of a vaginal birth. Another, used by urologists, assigned Black patients coming into emergency rooms with “flank pain” a lower likelihood of having kidney stones than non-Black patients — even though the software’s developers failed to explain why.

Some researchers likened such medical algorithms to risk assessment tools used in the criminal justice system, which can lead to higher bail amounts and longer prison sentences for Black defendants. “If the underlying data reflect racist social structures, then their use in predictive tools cements racism into practice and policy,” they wrote in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2020.

Bonta is seeking the hospital industry’s cooperation in his algorithm investigation by framing racial and ethnic disparities as injustices that require intervention. He said he believes that his inquiry is the first of its kind and that it falls under the California Department of

Justice’s responsibility to protect civil rights and consumers. “We have a lot of depth,” he said of his 4,500-employee agency.

Coleman Baeza and other advocates for health care consumers said the attorney general should also monitor nonprofit hospital mergers to ensure that health care facilities don’t reduce beds in underserved communities and crack down on predatory medical lending, particularly in dental care.

“They violate existing consumer protections, and that falls squarely within the AG’s jurisdiction,” said Linda Nguy, a senior policy advocate for the Western Center on Law and Poverty.

Nguy urged Bonta to go after underperforming health plans when they fail to contract with enough providers so patients can get timely appointments, even though the California Department of Managed Health Care is the state’s main health insurance regulator.

“During covid, the health plans were essentially given a pause on reporting of their timely access. But that pause is over, and the plans have to meet these requirements,” Nguy said. “He can ask for that utilization data.”

Bonta remains circumspect on a particular issue related to race.

His office has been facilitating California’s reparations task force, which issued a nearly 500-page preliminary report this year that noted that Black Californians had shorter life expectancies and poorer health outcomes than other groups. In surveys of hospitals across the country, Black patients with heart disease “receive older, cheaper, and more conservative treatments” than white patients, the report said.

The task force could recommend cash compensation for Black Californians who can establish ties to enslaved ancestors, but Bonta hasn’t endorsed that plan. The final report is due in July.

“If we can move the needle, then we should,” Bonta said.

“There are a whole set of different possible solutions, pathways to get there.” (Mark Kreidler/Kaiser Health News)

KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation).

KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

Marcos, Xi support early conclusion of...

and regional tensions."

"Our foreign policy refuses to fall into the trap of a Cold War mindset. Ours is an independent foreign policy guided by our national interest and commitment to peace," Marcos told Xi during the meeting.

A1

PAGE

added.

Polarizing polls

Disinformation against Robredo would continue to hound her when she ran for president in the May 2022 elections. She had admitted before that disinformation was the biggest challenge to her campaign.

“We have supporters. And our supporters were trying to fight fire with fire. So some of them were trying to fight all the disinformation with, trying to correct everything on social media. We felt that it just added to the polarization,” she noted.

According to Robredo, the

The Philippines and China have been in a long-standing maritime dispute as Beijing claims almost the entirety of the South China Sea, a portion of which has been renamed the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines scored a victory against China in the

polarization was part of the populist playbook, wherein two parties would be pitted against each other.

“It’s the populist playbook, that you agitate the one party, enrage the other party, and when everything is so polarized, there is no baseline of facts anymore. There’s no chance for people to discuss and do a fair amount of discourse,” the former Vice President of the Philippines said.

Nevertheless, Robredo said the house-to-house campaigning in her presidential bid was a breakthrough – although it came last-minute.

“Our campaign now is to

Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands in 2016. The arbitration court declared Beijing's claim over nearly the entire South China Sea as illegal. China has refused to acknowledge the ruling and continues to claim nearly the entire South China Sea. 

continue those conversations.

Start with your traditional networks, like families, work, school, and then go out of the communities,” she said.

Private citizen Robredo launched non-government organization Angat Buhay Foundation as soon as she stepped down from power.

Angat Buhay Foundation is seen to continue the welfare program she started when she was vice president.

The Democracy Forum was initiated by the Obama Foundation, a non-government organization founded by former U.S. President Barack Obama. 

Jordan Clarkson, Jalen Green heighten Filipinos’ interest in...

points and 3.3 assists per game for the rebuilding Rockets.

Clarkson, who last suited up for Gilas in Pilipinas’s game against Saudi Arabia in August, is steering the 10-6 Utah Jazz with 17.9 markers, 4.8 dimes and 4.1 rebounds per outing.

Kai Sotto is also playing a role in increasing the Philippines’

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITY

IFB NO. PO896-23

OILS AND LUBRICANTS

The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking Bids for a Contractor to supply Oils and Lubricants for the Agency’s Locomotives. Bid documents may be downloaded at SCRRA’s website at http:// metrolinktrains.com/contracts/ Select Vendor Portal. Electronic Bids are due at 2:00 P.M. (PT) on 12/9/22.

For further information contact: Dorothea Cantero, Contract Administrator, at canterod@scrra.net 11/19/22 CNS-3625942#

interest in the league as they await his potential inclusion to an NBA team.

“We’re so excited for his (Sotto’s) journey so far. As you all know, he’s playing for the NBL Adelaide 36ers. He has been a part of our ecosystem. He was a star of one of our Jr. NBA camps in 2016,” Sheikh explained.

The 7-foot-2 center joined the pool of aspiring draftees in the 2022 NBA Draft but was left unpicked.

Sotto is currently donning the 36ers jersey and recently had a winning performance against Melbourne United on Thursday, November 17, 9186, with eight points and four rebounds. (Rommel Fuertes Jr./ Inquirer.net)

Jordan Clarkson

Meet the Fil-Am candidates who won their races...

In Culver City, community advocate Stephanie Loredo received 5,388 votes, earning her one of the three open seats on the board of Culver City Unified School District.

As previously reported in the Asian Journal, Kenneth Mejia, the two-time congressional candidate, won the LA controller seat to become the first elected

Filipino in the city of LA. Mejia ran an effective campaign earmarked by the viral billboards posted all over the city showcasing what he describes as the city’s historic overinflation of the police budget. As a proponent of the People’s Budget of LA, Mejia has said he’d fight for communities of color and the disenfranchised communities of the city. 

Photo from Instagram/@ jordanclarksons

Jalen Green Photo from Instagram/@jalen

LOCAL PRIDE. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco admires a gown made of sabutan materials at the 1st North Luzon Travel Fair that opened at SMX Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga on Friday, Nov. 18. Sourced from a palm tree found in Aurora province, sabutan is the primary source of raw materials for native products such as hats, mats, fans, bags and other novelty items. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

Dateline PhiliPPines

Philippines slips in inclusion index, putting women, children at risk

by Kurt Dela Peña Inquirer.net

MANILA — “No one should be left behind” was the ultimate goal of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, but as “cascading and interlinked” global crises slowed progress toward achieving this, millions of women and children are now at risk of being left at the rear.

This was stressed by officials of WeWorld and ChildFund Alliance as the 2022 WeWorld Index, which monitors the living conditions of women and children in almost 170 countries, was released, highlighting the barriers that hinder their future.

As stated by Simon Whyte, chair of ChildFund Alliance, new and evolving barriers—poverty, conflict, forced migration, climate change, and online risks—“are currently affecting millions of women and children, and they inevitably will affect exponentially more, if left unaddressed.”

“These risks include global events such as the COVID-19 crisis, the invasion of Ukraine, increasing drought conditions affecting food production, and rising global temperatures that are making insufferable heat waves more the norm,” he said

It was stressed by Whyte that such events are resulting in surges in mass migration, school closures, poverty, food insecurity, illness and death. Likewise, he said: “They are creating increased risks to children as millions more go online for learning and socialization.”

Regrettably, Filipino women and children were not spared from these challenges as the Philippines, which received a score of 74.4 in inclusivity, slipped to 80 this year from 77 in 2021 and 78 in 2015.

The countries that received a score equal or more than 85 have “very good inclusion” for women and children, while those that got 75 to 84 have “good inclusion,” 65 to 74 indicates “sufficient inclusion,” 55 to 64 means “insufficient inclusion,” while 45 to 54 and equal or less than 44 indicate “severe exclusion” and “very severe exclusion.”

Based on data from the ChildFund Alliance, the Philippines is among 38 countries considered to have “sufficient inclusion,” next to Ecuador (74.6), Brazil (74.7), and Paraguay (74.9).

This, as the Philippines, out of 166 countries, was at 97th in the Context Sub-Index, which looks at the contexts in which women and children live. The country was 93rd in the Children’s SubIndex then 63rd in the Women’s Sub-Index, the ChildFund Alliance said in its report that was released last week.

Lower than regional average

While the Philippines’ score was higher than the global average, which was 63.6, it was still lower than the 75.1 average score in East Asia & Pacific—the third region with the highest average.

West Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand (86.6) and Central and East Europe (76.8) were the regions with the two highest averages. The rest of the regions on the list were Latin America and Caribbean (74.7), Middle East and North Africa (69.1), South Asia (60.8), East and South Africa (52.6), and Central and West Africa (46.5).

As stated by the ChildFund Alliance, Singapore, which was 11th in the 2022 WeWorld Index, was the country in East Asia and Pacific that received the highest score—87.3. Next to it were South Korea (82.9), Brunei (77.8), and Malaysia (77.7).

Then next to Malaysia were Japan (77.3), Thailand (77.3), Mongolia (76.2), China (75.5), Philippines (74.4), Vietnam (73.7), Fiji (73.5), Indonesia (73.0), Timor-Leste (66.9), Cambodia (65.7), Myanmar (65.4), Laos (63.2), Vanuatu (62.0), and Papua New Guinea (57.2).

The ChildFund Alliance said East Asia and Pacific were among the regions that had the most considerable progress in the Context Sub-Index and Women’s Sub-Index, but were the only region to experience a worsening in the conditions of children.

It was stressed that ever since the 2030 Sustainable

Development Agenda was launched in 2015, “the world has become less inclusive for children, making it even harder to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in this last Decade of Action” and that “the ‘children’s education’ dimension has suffered the most serious deterioration.”

Barriers

As stressed by the ChildFund Alliance, five global barriers are holding back the achievement of an adequate level of inclusion: poverty, conflict, forced migration, climate change and online risks for children.

Based on data from World Bank as of 2020, 10 percent of the world’s population still lives in extreme poverty, and the most at risk groups are disproportionately affected. Among them, children are more than twice as likely to be poor as adults.

With one in six children living in a conflict zone, as revealed by the Peace Research Institute of Oslo, the ChildFund Alliance said “the impacts of conflicts do not cease to exist when the attacks are over, but unfold themselves in their aftermath, with devastating consequences, especially for the most vulnerable people.”

Likewise, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund, almost one in three children living outside their countries of birth are child refugees. For adults, the proportion is less than one in 20.

It was also stressed that climate change, which is triggered mainly by high-income countries, will have catastrophic effects, especially on lowincome countries and the most vulnerable like women, children, adolescents, and indigenous communities.

But as life becomes digitized, incidents of digital harm will also increase, the Child Fund Alliance said, explaining that online risks are all the adverse situations one can encounter while navigating the virtual world—cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, abuse, grooming, and exposure to illegal content.

Based on data from the u PAGE A10

FEATURES OPINION

Slipping English pro ciency

THIS is one international index where the Philippines does not languish near the bottom or in middling levels. This year, however, the country slid by four notches, to 22nd place out of 111, in the latest edition of the English Proficiency Index.

The EPI, drawn up by Switzerlandbased global education company EF Education First, is the world’s largest ranking of countries, cities and regions where English is not the native language, based on adult English proficiency.

Editorial

At the top are countries with “very high” proficiency – meaning the general population can use nuanced and appropriate English in social situations, read advanced texts with ease and negotiate a contract with a native English speaker. Thirteen countries are listed in this category: the Netherlands, Singapore, Austria, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, Sweden, Finland, Portugal, Germany, Croatia, South Africa and Poland.

The Philippines is ranked among countries with “high proficiency” – referring to the ability to understand TV shows and read newspapers in English and make a presentation at work. It is ahead of Malaysia, which is at 24th place.

This year’s index covered adult English test takers 18 years old and above from 111 countries, with the median age 25 and the genders evenly balanced. The EF recognizes the limitations of results bases on self-selected test takers who participate only online. Still, it is the most

extensive test of global adult English proficiency, unlike standardized national tests that measure the language skills mainly of school children at specific ages, grade levels, income and other factors. The EF says its data sets do not compete but complement those of national test results and language polling.

There are people who might believe that English proficiency in the Philippines has slipped by more than the four notches registered in the index. Even President Marcos has given priority to restoring Filipinos’ English proficiency.

It’s a skill that does not guarantee an edge in economic development. The Philippines ranked higher than prosperous South Korea, which placed 36th. Ranked among the “low proficiency” countries are China (62nd), Israel (74th) and Japan (80th). Wealthy economies powered by petro dollars also ranked low: Qatar was at 73rd place and United Arab Emirates at 78th. Oman shared “very low proficiency” ranking at 101st place with Saudi Arabia at 102nd.

Still, it’s an edge that Filipinos enjoy over its regional peers, and an advantage in national competitiveness. The country ranked ahead of Vietnam, which was at 60th place and among those with “moderate proficiency.” Indonesia,

It’s more expensive in the Philippines

our fault and suggested we can do little about it. Of course, he is wrong.

IT really is more fun in the Philippines. We complain a lot about our politicians, but we keep voting for them. Then things start falling apart, but not to worry… our leaders say we are resilient and we are survivors.

Lately, we have started to notice that it is also getting to be more expensive to live in the Philippines. Prices of basic goods and services are going up. Food prices, power rates, medical care… you name it and the cost is up.

Those of us who are lucky enough to have something to eat three times a day should wonder how others manage. When Social Weather Stations asked them, half of all the Filipino respondents told SWS they felt poor. Many told SWS they suffer involuntary hunger some days of the month due to lack of money to buy food.

Junior’s son who is now a congressman says inflation is essentially foreign driven. He was effectively saying it is not

The bare fact we have this problem is negligence and corruption from over half a century of electing corrupt politicians who have no sense of public interest. As if stealing from the National Treasury is not enough, they also neglected our problems in agriculture and energy until these problems now look unsolvable.

A good question to ask Junior’s son is why prices in neighboring countries seem to be lower than ours. Singapore, for instance, which imports 99 percent of everything they eat apparently has lower food prices than here in our beloved Philippines.

Pinoys in Singapore can tell Junior’s son that food is cheaper in Singapore than in Manila. That surprised me too. My son lives in Singapore and I have always thought grocery items are more expensive there. Apparently, not.

Coconuts Manila, a news website, reports that “Filipinos have begun comparing the prices of goods in supermarkets abroad versus those at home. One post on Reddit, in particular, said that

one can purchase more with P650 (US$13) in Singapore than in Manila and showed receipts –literally.

“You know your country’s screwed when P650 can get you this in a first world country,” user u/freesink wrote next to a photo of a grocery haul that included a carton of eggs, bananas, carrots, cucumbers, cabbage, a bag of calamansi, onions, and a loaf of bread.

“Meanwhile, to compare, a kilo of cabbage and carrots each cost P100 (US$2) and P120 (US$2.4), respectively, according to the Department of Agriculture.

“The user went on to directly compare prices between Singapore’s FairPrice supermarket and the local SM Supermarket: 700 grams of red onion cost SGD1.25 (P51.79 or US$0.91) in Singapore, while in the Philippines it could cost P168 (US$3.36), 500 grams of carrots in Singapore cost SGD 0.95 (P39.36 or US$0.69), while locally it would set you back P62.5 (US$1.25).”

Of course, it shocked a lot of Filipinos online. We know we are being screwed, but didn’t know how badly.

“Holy shit! The prices in the Philippines are more expensive, but the base salary is incredibly low compared to Singapore,” one said.

“Funny how fresh produce seems to be more expensive here where they can be grown locally than in SG where they are probably imported,” another said.

“First World prices with a Third World income,” a user lamented.

It isn’t just Singapore. Coconuts also cited academic Renee Karunungan Edwards who in October also compared prices between United Kingdombased grocery retailer Aldi and SM Supermarket. Amid reports of extremely high onion prices, stating that a kilo of onion in the UK was at GBP 0.50 or P32.76, while in Manila it was being sold for P136.

With foreign corporations headquartered in Hong Kong leaving as China tightens the political screws, there are some folks here who are dreaming of offering Manila an alternative site for regional headquarters. Perish the thought. It is not worthwhile to suffer Third World governance

Not just a generational problem

the 2020 presidential elections by bannering the big lie that he was cheated, and hijack the party narrative.

be mutual.

THE success of the U.S. Democratic Party in avoiding what had been predicted to be a shellacking at the hands of the Republicans is largely attributable to the support it received from young voters. It is not that Generation Z and younger millennial voters had a heavier turnout.

In fact, there was no significant difference in the number of younger voters who cast their votes in the November midterm elections. What made the difference is that they voted heavily Democratic, more than the level they used to in previous elections.

The younger voters were particularly animated by the clear ideological differences between the Democrats, who anchored their campaign on reproductive freedom and the protection of U.S. democracy, and the Republicans who allowed Donald Trump to insert "make America great again" (MAGA) sloganeering and his attempt to litigate his loss in

The Pew Research Center has characterized the millennial generation, or those born between 1981 and 1996, as a cohort which values motivation, challenges hierarchical status quo, places importance on relationships with superiors, possesses intuitive knowledge on technology, is open and adaptive to change, places importance on tasks instead of time, has a passion for learning, is receptive to feedback and recognition, is free-thinking and creative, and values teamwork and social interactions in the workplace. On the other hand, the Gen Z generation, or those born between 1997 and 2012, are those who value diversity, are digital natives, are pragmatic and financially minded and are shrewd consumers. They are generally politically progressive but are prone to mental health challenges. Millennials and the Gen Z would definitely have problems with and would abhor demanding, dictatorial, imperious and unfeeling superiors, employers and politicians, and the feeling would

Thus, these two generations would naturally frown upon any kind of politics whose ideological backbone would restrict their choices and freedom, particularly those that would pertain to their individual sexual orientation.

The culture wars which MAGA Trump Republicans actively bore in this election cycle, particularly made vivid in the threats to curtail reproductive and voting rights, simply became threats to those personal choices. It is this disposition toward freedom and rights that drove these cohorts to vote heavily Democratic.

It therefore behooves us to ask if this trend also manifested in the recent presidential elections in the Philippines last May. What is puzzling is that preelection surveys saw President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who many progressive liberals painted as the heir apparent of the Marcosian brand of politics associated with repression and the closure of political spaces, dominated all age groups, including the Gen Z and millennial generations. And this was reflected in actual election results. There was, therefore, no youth vote that distinctly trended differently from the national pattern, and

favored other candidates.

One possible explanation is that this whole business of dividing us into generations, with each having distinct attributes, may be culturally and historically nuanced. Thus, they are more applicable in Western contexts and less in those like the Philippines whose historical and cultural experiences may be different. But another plausible explanation is that the political choices available to us, in terms of the candidates running, are not defined in the context of contrasting ideological platforms, and end up as a contest of personalities. A perusal of the attributes of both the millennials and the Gen Z would reveal that while they seem to be politically progressive, they also value personal likability and social relationships. In the absence of clear ideological differences, and in an electoral exercise where ideological platforms do not figure significantly, then what is left would be the social likability not only of their candidates but of their campaigns.

The problem of the Filipino youth voters is not only manifested as internal limitations that are borne from the generalizable behavioral

with our increasingly First World living expenses.

Paul John Cana wrote in Esquire Philippines that in a survey of home rental prices across six cities in Southeast Asia, the Philippine capital ranked second, just behind Singapore.

“According to research by ecommerce aggregator iPrice, the price of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Manila is 56 percent higher than in Kuala Lumpur, 47 percent higher than in Jakarta, 31 percent higher than in Ho Chi Minh, and nine percent higher than in Bangkok.”

Rental prices in Singapore are still higher than in Manila. But that’s because of limited land area and high demand from residents and non-residents alike. But for locals, Singapore has a good housing program for them, something non-existent here...and Singapore has a civilized mass transport system we can only dream of.

As for the cost of living, the Esquire article notes Numbeo, a database platform that compiles the cost of living in different places around the world, showed Manila came in third highest at P50,800, just slightly below Bangkok at P51,500. The study takes into account the usual

trends among millennials and the Gen Zs. It is also attributable to the failure of political parties and candidates to nurture and harness the youth vote in a way that would translate them into a potential electoral base. The result of the recently concluded U.S. midterm elections would suggest that ideological platforms can only be effective if these are translated into concrete threats to youth voters. The reason why Democrats were successful in harnessing the youth vote to their advantage is that they were able to translate their liberal slogans to highlight actual assaults on the rights of individuals on issues that matter most to them.

Unfortunately, sloganeering among youth activists in the Philippines, as enabled by their adult counterparts, continues to be dominated by reference to traditional, and for all intents and purposes, jaded left-wing narratives. The posters and memes that are being bannered remain fixed in the 1970 tropes of anti-U.S. imperialism and the threats of bureaucratic capitalism. While there is still value in locating the problem in the context of larger theoretical constructs, the liberalprogressive plank should begin to evolve out of the traditional Marxist-socialist model, and begin addressing the politics of

necessities, including rent, food, transportation, utilities, etc. Not including rent, the total cost of living is still about P28,800 per month in Manila.

“Overall, the cost of living in the capital of the Philippines is 33 percent higher than in Kuala Lumpur, 28 percent higher than in Ho Chi Minh, and 24 percent higher than in Jakarta. Topping the list again, unsurprisingly, is Singapore, where the average monthly cost of living is a whopping P119,732.

“Consider those numbers and stack them up against the fact that, according to Numbeo, Manila residents have the lowest estimated average net salary compared to the other five cities. iPrice says the average salary of Filipino workers living here is only about P18,900 per month.

“In effect, the average cost of living in Manila is 168 percent higher than the average salary.” Buti na lang resilient tayo! Basta! It’s more fun in the Philippines! (Philstar.com)

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

* * * Boo Chanco’s email address is bchanco@ gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter @boochanco

identity in which the younger generations find themselves as inhabitants.

This is a generation that see threats to their existence less in the context of capitalist exploitation. This is a generation that lives and breathes consumerism. They see their threats not as coming from dictatorial regimes, but from a policy infrastructure that would undermine their choices, mobility and individual spaces. They are less concerned about the oppression that happened in the past, but about their oppression in the present. They would not be mobilized by painting any politician as a threat to democracy writ large. One has to personalize those threats in terms of their impacts on the safety of their spaces and their mental health.

The U.S. Democrats were able to harness the youth vote because they turned the election not into a referendum against inflation and a failing economy, but an opportunity to protect their young voters' individual choices in terms of their personal reproductive and political rights. (ManilaTimes.net)

* * *

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

ANTONIO P. CONTRERAS

ANDY TECSON

IVY

ManilaTimes.net photo

ranked 81st, has “low proficiency.” Myanmar placed 93rd, Cambodia 94th, Thailand 97th and Laos, 111th. Their younger generations could be

catching up for a more dynamic workforce. The Philippines cannot afford to lose this valuable edge. (Philstar.com)

Rights watchdog hits PNP for ‘undercounting’ drug war killings under Marcos administration Philippines slips in inclusion index...

by FRANCO LUNA Philstar.com

MANILA — International rights watchdog Human Rights Watch hit the Philippine National Police on Friday, November 18 for what it said was the latter's "downplaying" and "undercounting" of drug war deaths under the Marcos Jr. administration.

Police Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, PNP chief, said in a forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on Monday, November 14 that 32 have died in PNP operations while 14 others were killed by agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

He also claimed that the number of drug suspects who had been killed over the past five months was "very minimal" as the PNP opted to focus on engaging other sectors.

In a statement, Phil Robertson, Deputy Director of HRWs Asia Division pointed to the estimate of the University of the Philippines’ Third World Studies Center, whose Dahas program tallied 127 people killed in “drug war” incidents from July 1 after Marcos was sworn in, to November 7.

"Even if one accepts the PNP’s figures, calling this death toll ‘very minimal’ smacks of insensitivity and callousness. Since the antidrug campaign began seven years ago under then-president Rodrigo Duterte, thousands of families of people gunned down

have been crying out for justice," he said.

"Not only has the violence continued, but Marcos also made clear that he is not going to undertake a policy change regarding illegal drugs. In September, he said he wanted to focus on rehabilitation, but there is no evidence that the authorities have done anything to make such a shift."

During the Duterte administration, the PNP admitted to killing more than 6,200 suspected drug users or dealers, mostly impoverished Filipinos. But rights groups both here and abroad say that the real death toll may be as high as 30,000, counting vigilante killings not acknowledged by the police.

But HRW pointed out that the PNP "has been known to manipulate its statistics on extrajudicial killings related to the campaign." Research by Human Rights Watch and other human rights groups found that police officers routinely plant evidence such as illegal drugs and weapons on the bodies of victims to try to justify their claims that the person had fought back.

Marcos' government has said that the "war on drugs" under its term would focus more on preventing drug use and the rehabilitation of drug dependents.

Sought for comment, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla lashed out at the New York-based rights organization, saying: "Not all views are objective,

as they were colored and poisoned by non-government organizations towing [National Democratic Front] lines." Remulla has since taken the position that critics calling attention to the country's human rights situation were influenced by the Communist Party of the Philippines.

During the adoption of the recommendations of the Working Group of the Universal Periodic Review of the Philippines, Remulla accused communist rebels of "blurring the lines between civic activism and armed violence.”

"Extrajudicial killing is not state policy. Classifying a death that occurred during an anti-illegal drug operation as extra-judicial killing by default runs counter to the tenets of due process and the rule of law. We will never tolerate the abuse of power and use of force beyond the bounds of law," he said then.

Robertson said that the Philippine government "made misleading assertions in its defense of its human rights record during the Universal Periodic Review of the Philippines earlier this month at the United Nations Human Rights Council."

"But so far, all that has been forthcoming from the new administration has been inflated rhetoric masking empty claims. The government’s killing of 46 people is not “minimal” by any standard. It’s outrageous. Friends of the Philippines should not be fooled," he said. 

PH seeks rede nition of climate nance for developing countries

MANILA — The Philippines calls for the inclusion of needs and priorities of developing countries in the definition of “climate finance.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs said the Philippines called for the adoption of a transformational and operational definition of climate finance to include the principles or characteristics of the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) at the fifth High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on Climate Finance of the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP27, in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt on Monday, November 14.

The NCQG is the new set of

climate financial support that takes account the needs and priorities of developing countries from a base of $100 billion per year.

The Philippines asked for a delivery plan for achieving the $100 billion minimum that focuses on adaptation financing, scaling up climate finance grants, and streamlining access to financing.

The country also stated that financial mechanisms should be based on the best available science and technologies.

Philippine Ambassador to Egypt Ezzedin Tago said the collective ambition of scaling up climate action should be anchored on a transparent, accessible,

predictable and efficient mobilization of climate finance as he highlighted the need for swift and effective initiatives.

“Let us all work to break down the barriers to ambitious climate finance. Let us all endeavor for a climate finance that offers more sustainable results,” Tago said.

The dialogue was moderated by the ministers of Maldives and Finland. States parties shared the challenges and key areas of progress in climate finance, how the delivery and transparency of climate financing can be further enhanced, and lessons learned that can be applied to deliberations on the new collective quantified goal. (Philstar.com)

Interpol, every day, seven victims of online child sexual exploitation are identified all over the world.

WeWorld dimensions

The WeWorld Index, published every year since 2015, arises from the need to illustrate the living conditions of women and children worldwide. It is a composite index that measures women’s and children’s inclusion in key dimensions:

• Environment

• Housing

• Conflicts and wars

• Democracy and safety

• Access to information

• Children’s health

• Children’s education

• Children’s human capital

• Children’s economic capital

• Violence against children

• Women’s health

• Women’s education

• Women’s economic opportunities

• Women’s decision-making participation

• Violence against women.

It was stressed that the dimensions, which were introduced in the latest edition of the WeWorld Index, allows for additional processing— assessing whether and how the 15 dimensions that make up the Index are correlated with each one.

“It is evident that the context in which one is born plays a key role in determining living conditions […] The ‘Housing’ dimension has strong correlations not only with other context dimensions, but also with women’s and children’s health and education, the violence perpetrated against them, and women’s economic opportunities.”

“The right to adequate housing is essen5 In statistics, correlation is defined as any statistical relationship, whether causal or not, between two variables or data,” the ChildFund Alliance said.

“As conceivable, the ‘Democracy and safety’ dimension relates to ‘Conflicts and wars.’ In these times, it is good to remember that the state of health of a country, its social protection systems, and its citizens depend on its internal stability and institutions,” it stressed.

Inclusive development’s building blocks

As stated in the WeWorld Index, four areas of action to assert and exercise women’s

and children’s rights are taken into consideration—health, education, the economy, and society.

“To achieve full inclusion of women and children, they must be put in the condition to develop their capabilities, implement their rights, and experience the positive power of doing and being what they want to be in the said areas.”

It was explained by the ChildFund Alliance, in each of the building blocks, women and children may be hindered in the acquisition of their capabilities by specific and mutual risk factors.

“The actions carried out in the four building blocks—aimed at fostering their capabilities and the norms modification—affect the environmental and cultural setting too, which contributes in turn to asserting new rights for everybody, including men.”

It said undernourished children experience growth issues and run a higher risk of being infected or dying, but also developing limited cognitive abilities, which will undermine their school performance.

Likewise, “an undernourished woman will have perinatal complications and give birth to premature or underweight babies, running higher risks of being infected or dying during delivery.”

If children have access to quality education early in their lives, they will perform better at higher school levels, run fewer risks of dropping out of school and earn high qualifications. They will become more aware and educated adults, and pass on to their children the value of education.

Educated women, meanwhile, have access to better paid and more protected jobs and can get back (earlier) to the paid labor market, with positive consequences for themselves and their children.

It was explained by the ChildFund Alliance that children living in a family in good economic conditions, where both parents work and the woman is equal to the man, enjoy good health and have proper nutrition.

Parents in good economic conditions, especially mothers, invest more in their children’s education, even in the long term. Hence, their children run fewer risks of dropping out of school

to contribute to family income or being abducted into the childlabor exploitation circuits.

“A working mother is a model for her children—above all for girls—and will guide them in their future choices. Girls will be more inclined to study longer and, in the future, to enter the labor market,” it said.

It was stressed that in a free and democratic country, women participate in public and political life, promoting gender and generational equality objectives, while women transmit to their children the value of honesty and democratic principles, fighting against corruption and practices damaging the collective wellbeing.

“If society recognizes children as legal entities, and their opinions are taken into consideration, they have negotiating power in the family, and their parents will be more likely to listen to them. “

Drastic change needed now As revealed by the WeWorld and ChildFund Alliance, in seven years, the world has improved by only 1.4 points in the WeWorld Index, indicating that at this rate, it would take 182 years to achieve a level of adequate inclusion for women and children all over the world.

“Inclusion affects multiple spheres of life: from access to education, health services, and living in safe places, to equal rights in social participation— from access to public services to the ability to fully and freely express one’s personality.”

Marco Chiesara, president of WeWorld, said “the report highlights that the great challenge of our times is to guarantee a future for boys and girls.”

Meg Gardinier, secretary general of ChildFund Alliance, stressed that “it is critical that the world pay attention to how the effects of these five barriers intertwine with each other, creating a threatening combination that could potentially compromise the future of an entire generation and of those to come.”

“Though significant work remains ahead, I am encouraged by the collaborative efforts of ChildFund members and our partners to create a more inclusive world where children and women are guaranteed their rights and are able to achieve their full potential.” 

Battered wife gets green card through self-petition on a brand-new success story in Citizen Pinoy this Sunday

LANCE came to the U.S. in 2017, and then married his U.S. citizen girlfriend in a same-sex marriage. His wife petitioned Lance for his green card, but their marriage turned sour, and the wife kept postponing their immigration interviews.

The American wife also started abusing Lance physically and verbally, stole money from him, and even threatened him with deportation. Lance also found out that his wife had a boyfriend.

When the wife left Lance for her boyfriend, someone suggested that Lance consult with leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel.

After it became apparent that the American wife would no longer help Lance with his green card application, Atty. Gurfinkel advised USCIS that they will convert the case from a spousal PAGE B2

Fil-Am engineer Dr. Cris Liban awarded for industry advancement at the American Society of Civil Engineers convention

Rhizomes

“SOCIETY works best when we can take its functions for granted. It works best when we can trust that our personal safety is never in doubt. Trust, often unseen, is indispensable for a healthy, functioning society. And, in the absence of trust, nothing that works can work well.”

— Pete Buttigieg, Trust: America’s Best Chance, 2020 U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg must have been a prescient forecaster of events when he wrote his book, “Trust: America’s Best Chance.” In it, he

described how it took a million tweets from the beginning of 2014 to erode public trust. It took a thorough research paper in 2018 on Russian bot activity in the American Journal of Public Health to describe their findings on Russian trolls’ posts on vaccination. He wrote, “By promoting a cloud of ‘fifty-fifty’ messaging on a matter of settled medical and scientific consensus, the overall effect was to create doubt in the truth. It undermined vaccine science, while also serving a broader goal of adding controversy as such. Russian trolls promoted discord. Accounts masquerading as legitimate users create false equivalency, eroding public consensus on vaccination.”

Two years of a slowed-down economy, most meetings in person suspended with Zoom

Dolly shares fighting chance in Hollywood amid buzz on possible Oscar nom

By Jeline Malasig Philstar.com

Sadness,” had its Philippine premiere.

Fresh from the United States, the actress graced the opening of the 10th QCinema International Film Festival on Thursday, November 17 where her Canneswinning movie, “Triangle of

Dolly was in the stateside where she participated in the producer’s campaign to woo members of the Academy Awards to select her as a finalist in the

“BATTERED-SPOUSE” GREEN CARD THROUGH A SELF-PETITION, ON A BRAND-NEW SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! Lance arrived in the U.S. in 2017 and married his U.S. citizen wife. The wife petitioned Lance for his green card, but the marriage turned rocky. Soon, the American wife started abusing Lance physically and verbally, and even threatened to have him deported. Upon a friend’s recommendation, Lance consulted with Atty. Gurfinkel. Atty. Gurfinkel converted Lance’s case from a spousal petition to a VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) self-petition, which was approved in September 2022. Lance was able to get a “batteredspouse” green card. Watch this success story on a brand-new 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. (Advertising Supplement)

VETERAN actress Dolly de Leon shared her fighting chance in Hollywood after her name was floated among the possible nominees for a major category in

the upcoming Academy Awards or the Oscars.

Prosy AbArquez DelAcruz, J.D.

Cris Liban receives the Henry Michel Award for Industry Advancement of Research with ASCE President Maria Lehman

Matteo reveals how Sarah went ‘against all odds’ for their love

ang

Battered wife gets green card through...

By Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

“That’s

“I

Dolly shares fighting chance...

2023 Oscars Best Supporting Actress category.

Her performance in the dark comedy film earned similar commendation from Filipinos after receiving a rousing standing ovation following its Philippine premiere.

According to Dolly, she chose to be in the country for the film’s local premiere to feel the reaction of her fellow Pinoys.

“It was my choice to be here,” she told ABS-CBN News.

The actress also said that she believes Southeast Asians have more “representation” on the international stage, saying that there’s more “diversity” when it comes to casting and on film production teams.

“Nagbabago na ‘yung mundo ngayon eh, dun na tayo sa, ‘yung inclusivity, na lahat ng ethnicities welcome dun sa mundo nila,” Dolly said in a video uploaded by News5 entertainment journalist MJ Marfori.

The actress cited the international breakthroughs of fellow Pinoy actors Soliman Cruz, Chai Fonacier, Ruby Ruiz and others for continuing to open more doors for Filipino artists on the global stage.

Dolly also described the campaign for the movie to get nominated under Best International Feature Film category of Oscars 2023 as “super solid.”

“Talagang ang sipag sipag nila na i-campaign tayo tsaka ‘yung pelikula, as in back-to-back ‘yung mga pangyayari,” she said.

“May interview ta’s photoshoot, ta’s screening, ta’s Q&A, ta’s cocktails, ta’s ganon ulit. Gising na naman nang maaga tapos tulog na naman nang late. So talagang solid ‘yung campaign nila dun,” Dolly added.

In relation to her possible Oscar nomination, the actress

admitted that she does not want to expect too much since she does not want to feel bad if she fails to get in.

“Kung hindi pumasok, okay lang, siguro iiyak ako ng isang araw ta’s okay nako ulit,” she said with a laugh.

Moving forward, Dolly teased that she will work in the U.S. in March where she will take part in a comedy film.

“Parang ano ako doon, medyo mean or medyo masungit na stepmom,” she said.

‘Triangle of Sadness’

The actress stars in Ruben Östlund‘s “Triangle of Sadness” as Abigail, a toilet manager on a luxury cruise ship.

The movie tells the story of celebrity couple Carl (Harris Dickinson) and Yaya (Charlbi Dean) who were invited to a yacht for a luxury cruise after Fashion Week.

Things take a turn for the worse when a storm occurs and they get shipwrecked on a desert island with several other billionaires who joined the cruise.

Mild-mannered Abigail, who

ends up being the most capable of them, becomes a ruthless survivalist and leader figure among the privileged passengers as they deal with their situation.

The film has earned the Palme d’Or for Best Picture, the top award, at the prestigious 2022 Cannes Film Festival.

Dolly’s performance was also lauded by the foreign press, with Variety saying that “her every line has so far prompted cheers in press and public screenings alike.”

“Her story is just one part of Östlund’s searing commentary on privilege, greed and power — but Abigail’s power play, exquisitely brought to life by de Leon’s deadpan delivery, is what audiences will remember,” the entertainment publication said.

Variety awards guru Clayton Davis said that Dolly “could be the frontrunner walking into awards season,” referring to the Oscars.

“Her committed turn not only makes her the defining supporting performance of the year thus far, but also, if enough Academy members make a note to focus on quality (and not simply name recognition as they can often do),” he predicted.

Variety has released its Oscar predictions for 2023 and ranked the Filipina third among the possible Best Supporting Actress contenders.

The Oscars is an awards ceremony in the U.S. that annually honors the best technical and artistic achievements in the American and international film industry.

Winners are selected by members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, a professional honorary organization composed of distinguished cinematographers, directors, actors, musicians, writers, editors and such. g

petition to a self-petition under the VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) so that Lance can pursue his green card without the help of his spouse.

In September 2022, Lance’s VAWA petition was approved, and Lance was able to get a “battered-spouse” green card.

Watch this success story on a brand-new 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)

Fil-Am engineer Dr. Cris Liban...

conferences as the norm. With virtual connections for two years, what happens to a national convention attended by worldwide participants? Will they trust again, after being socially isolated from connecting with one another?

Disneyland, where frontline customer service was streamlined and efficient, was the chosen site. From that first encounter, mirrored by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)’s frontline staffers, I found them equally knowledgeable and efficient.

I recall also how decades ago, I would sit behind a Metro bus and literally curse it for its emissions that triggered my asthma attacks. Now, I enjoy riding the bus occasionally, even riding the MetroLink and Amtrak’s coast rider to San Diego. It all started with clean Metro buses, which encouraged me to trust public transit again.

Distinguished member distinction 788 participants attended a celebratory luncheon wherein 10 members were inducted as “Distinguished Member, “ a designation “reserved for the most eminent civil engineers in the Society. A Distinguished Member is a person who has attained eminence in some branch of engineering or in the arts and sciences related thereto, including the fields of engineering education and construction.” This was the American Society for Civil Engineers, 170old international organization with over 40 student chapters, actively mentored by the industries that sponsor student lunches to hear their speeches and updates.

It is the members’ rise to this distinction, where 250 out of 150,000 members are recognized with this designation, since 1852, a mere 0.16%, 1/16 of 1%, clearly the cream of the crop that these nearly 800 participants came to applaud.

Dr. Emmanuel “Cris” Battad Liban’s induction happened on October 24, 2022, on the festival of Diwali, the triumph of light over darkness, with a deeper significance, given the darkness we all felt from being isolated for two years by this Coronavirus pandemic. It historically occurred during the month of October, traditionally celebrated as Filipino American History Month and officially recognized by the White House.

For each of the 10 distinguished members, a short video was prepared with a younger student congratulating the distinguished member/professor and for Cris, his son JP congratulated him, followed by a trailer about his accomplishments in life.

His wife Benel rearranged her own busy CEO schedule of managing 25 accountants on financial and business consulting services to support this distinction.

Engineering News Record, a 105-year-old publication with over 500 design firms listed, 600 specialty contractors, and 2015 circulation of 62,285, and one that ranks annually the largest contractors and design firms in the U.S., selected Cris in 2020 as their Award of Excellence winner for his work on Metro’s Sustainability Practices and its usage of green construction practices [upended in part by the recent Purple Line construction shutdown given the contractors’ gross inability to correct workplace injuries], usage of renewable natural gas to power all of its bus fleet, operating electrical vehicle chargers, helping to eliminate food deserts near Metro stations, and helping to provide opportunities to the homeless.

Thomas Small, chairman of the LA Metro Sustainability Council ,asserted: “I don’t think there’s anyone else in the world who has the position and the grit and knowledge to take Metro forward as it becomes even more the most innovative and the most effective transit system in the country, and we’re lucky to have [Cris Liban],” ENR reported in its January 21, 2020 publication.

ENR also reported on Cris “quietly changing the environmental, financial and social landscape of Los Angeles for the last 10 years,” according to ENR newsmaker Bilal Ayyub.

Cris is LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s first-ever chief sustainability officer, leading the efforts to ensure LA Metro’s $140-billion infrastructure program and 28 transportation and transit projects that must be completed by the 2028 Olympics the region is hosting –are climate-adapted and resilient.”

[Full disclosure, I have been friends with the Liban family since 2013, with his wife Benel and their son, JP, sharing birthday and Christmas gettogethers. I have interacted with Cris on politics, LA City’s transportation issues, homelessness, climate change, and even infection control. Our conversations can last hours and I am struck by how patient he is to fully understand my point of view and waits for an opportune time to share his point of view and ultimately, by deferential action on his part, he invites for a higher common ground to end the discussion.]

That humble trait of an academician is not forgotten and becomes the prism from which I have had to observe him for eight years. I volunteered to attend the American Society for Civil Engineers’ convention, at my own expense, realizing the significance of Cris being installed as a distinguished member, the highest member designation of this organization, founded in 1852, a 170 year- old organization. You might think that if it is that ancient, what old practices they must have. I was so wrong!

Sustainability leader and Henry Michel awardee

The Henry Michel Award, named for the now deceased President of Parsons, a well-known and credible engineering construction firm that completed historic projects: IRT subway line in New York City, Atlanta’s rapid transit system, the first Caracas Metro Line in Venezuela and transit system of Taipei, Taiwan, as New York Times reported in 2018. The award recognizes design, construction, and aggressive vision in the industry.”

Cris was recognized as a Henry Michel awardee for being a “world-renowned leader in sustainability who tackles issues on social equity, resilience, climate change impacts, greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategies, life cycles and cost framework, sustainable transport funding and financing,”

Among the 25 recipients in ASCE’s history included individuals from Walt Disney, Shimizu, NY State Department of Transportation, MIT, Bechtel Corporation and McGraw Hill.

“Cris has really been a very innovative force when it comes to sustainability. He’s aware of all the latest developments in that field, but he’s also very innovative and willing to think outside the box. He makes sure we use the latest, most efficient equipment with our contractors, even to the level of what type of fuels are used and how we specify materials that are used on specific projects. It’s pretty all-encompassing,” said Rick Clarke, retired Metro Chief Program Management Officer and one of Cris’ colleagues at LA Metro.

Maria Lehman, ASCE’s President for 2022, acknowledged working with Cris on Envision for a decade, a sustainability rating system for infrastructures.

His wife Benel has been consistently sharing on Facebook posts his consistent involvement with ASCE: contributing three chapters to a new technical book on Engineering in 2017; ASCE’s California 2018 Outstanding Civil Engineer in Public Service; ASCE’s Most Outstanding Sustainable Project won by Liban’s Metro Team in 2019 and now Henry Michel Awardee of ASCE 2022.

When Cris made front page of the Engineering News Record, these quotes from Pam Radtke Russell’s April 15, 2020 article, struck my attention:

“He has a quiet, powerful image that he projects.” –Ileana S. Ivanciu, Senior VP, Dewberry

“He’s looking at the topic of sustainability writ large. Part of it is standards and part of it is advocacy in the political sphere. He is really trying to identify root causes and challenges and reflect on how we can make significant long-term progress on these things. He’s definitely big picture. But he realizes you’ve got to tie it together and drill down to basics as well.” –Doug Dietrich, Sustainability Manager at Burns & McDonnell

“Where Cris stands out is he looks beyond LA Metro, to the whole region and the country, on how he can leverage what he is doing at his agency to make a difference in the world.” – Anthony Kane, president and CEO at the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure, a non-profit that implements the Envision sustainability rating system for infrastructure.

Cris’ acceptance speech started with thanking God, the power he comes to, about 10,000 times in the last 25 years, to make a difference in people’s lives. He thanked his wife, his son and the legion of mentors that formed him.

Attending the ASCE convention cemented my fundamental beliefs in mentoring as propelling right-minded change. ASCE’s structured mentoring mechanism keeps it vibrant, relevant and credible.

For me, in Los Angeles, we enjoy Metro’s fleet of 2,200 buses that are run by renewable natural gas, with no visible pollutant emissions. It makes for a very comfortable ride for the riders and the car drivers behind these buses, all waiting for the green light.

During a workshop panel on ‘Engineering and Climate Change,’ Liban reported on having trained over 500 employees on the principles of sustainability and resiliency, which includes the budget office that now is more aware of the billions needed to enhance infrastructure and the inspector general’s office that is now more aware to police the expenditure of these funds without fraudulent practices.

Liban earns credibility and trust as he draws in more people to be in his orbit, to be collaborative, to be right-minded in viewing the consequences to the riders, and to share his perspective for changes outside the bus, to the over 12,000 bus stops and into the millions of trees whose roots are buckling and destroying LA’s sidewalks and to the people populating these sidewalks because they have no shelter.

* * *

Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called “Rhizomes.” She has been writing for AJ Press for 12 years. She also contributes to Balikbayan Magazine. Her training and experiences are in science, food technology, law and community volunteerism for 4 decades. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of the Philippines, a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in California and a certificate on 21st Century Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. She has been a participant in NVM Writing Workshops taught by Prof. Peter Bacho for 4 years and Prof. Russell Leong. She has travelled to France, Holland, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Japan, Costa Rica, Mexico and over 22 national parks in the U.S., in her pursuit of love for nature and the arts.

Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to get a “battered-wife” green card for his client, Lance (left), on a brand-new episode of

Cris and wife Benel Se-Liban after the ASCE induction of the Class of 2022 ASCE Distinguished Members  Photo by Prosy

Dolly de Leon in this photo taken by Jojit Lorenzo and uploaded on her Instagram on April 5. Photo from Instagram/@dollyedeleon

ACTOR Matteo Guidicelli paid tribute to his wife Sarah Geronimo in a rare showing of affection on national television.

16) episode of “Lunch Out Loud,” Matteo shared his experience in the relationship segment of the show.

the beauty of love.

Sa pag-ibig, mari-realize natin na hindi tayo perfect as an individual. Pero kapag dumating

tao na talagang swak sa ‘yo — parang puzzle ang pag-ibig, eh — dapat magtulungan kayo para maging buo at maging isa kayo,” Matteo said.

really put so much respect on people who (go) against all

Las Vegas housing market still a ordable

By

THE housing market in Las Vegas has cooled down from the buying frenzy that was 2021. At that time, eagle-eyed buyers were on the lookout for any property they could snap up, sometimes offering prices way above the asking price. Sellers had the pick of their buyers, sometimes being inundated with multiple offers.

With the recent rise in mortgage rates, many buyers have now become gun shy about their home purchases. Local home values have fallen for the fifth consecutive month as of October 2022.

Currently, industry experts have said that there is about a 4.6-month supply of homes in Southern Nevada, which is higher than the October numbers of 1.1 months. Clearly, the trend is moving towards favoring buyers, although it is still in the seller’s market segment.

On a bright note, median home prices (single family homes) are still up from about a year ago –specifically about 7.3% higher, somewhere around the $440,000 level. In October 2021, median home prices were leveling at $410,000. Look further a year ago from that, median home prices were about $340,000 in October 2020.

Overall, home prices in Southern Nevada are way up from what they were in the recession times. The median price for a single-family home in Southern Nevada was around $118,000 in January of 2012, a post-recession low.

Right now, buyers can haggle with sellers when it comes to buying property. Although mortgage rates are higher, buyers can negotiate on a variety of components, including price, closing costs, and other concessions they can bargain with sellers.

Still, this is a great time to consider Southern Nevada – and the State of Nevada, overall – when it comes to buying property.

Construction in Las Vegas is still ongoing, with a lot of projects slated to either open in 2023 or begin construction by next year.

The crew at Fontainbleau is knee-deep in work as they move towards a late 2023 opening, while Red Rock Resorts, Hard Rock International, Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts and VICI Properties are busy with their own projects for their properties along the Strip and elsewhere. Resorts World Las Vegas’ opening was a first for the Las Vegas area in a while; it is owned by the Genting Group.

Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta has bought a piece of property along the Strip which will be the site of a luxury hotel-casino. Fertitta owns the Golden Nugget casinos in Las Vegas and Laughlin. The property in the Strip is the billionaire businessman’s foray into the most competitive hotel-casino area in Las Vegas.

The Oak View Group, meanwhile, has plans for its own $3-billion entertainment complex, that includes an arena, shopping/food areas, hotelcasino and amphitheater. The arena will be made NBA-ready, in anticipation of any future move by the National Basketball Association to add to its current mix.

The Formula 1 racing slated for late 2023, continued artist residencies/shows in Las Vegas, the additional of shows at the different hotel properties, popular chef-owned and diverse restaurants in Las Vegas, and high-end retail shopping at some of the hotel-casinos are just some of the attractions that keep people going to Sin City.

With Las Vegas also positioning itself as an upcoming sports capital in the West with its major professional sports teams (Las Vegas Raiders in the National Football League, Las Vegas Aces in the Women’s National Basketball Association, the Vegas Golden Knights in the National Hockey League), people are taking a second look at Southern Nevada not just as a gambling and entertainment haven to visit, but as a legitimate place to settle in and establish roots.

Las Vegas is not a one-trick pony anymore, fueled solely by the gaming industry. It caters to many – individuals, couples and families. Gainful employment is not only present in the construction, gaming and hospitality industries, but in many fields that service the needs of the population – food, education, recreation, healthcare and distribution.

There are many things slated for the city, county and state that make it a draw for people. In fact, a study by the University of Las Vegas-Nevada’s Center for Business and Economic Research projected that the population of Clark County, where Las Vegas is situated in, will see an increase of 1 million people by 2060. That will bring the population of the county to about 3.38 million, from the estimated 2.38 million people currently living within the county.

The state offers great opportunities for the savvy and forward-thinking – great returns on your investments in real estate and a host of tax benefits for Nevada residents (competitive business state tax, a county sales tax of 6.75% (not on food items), and no taxes associated with estate/inheritance,

franchise, gift, inventory/interstate commerce, corporate income and personal income).

Right now may be the best time to find or snap up that property or real estate in the market for those intending to buy in Southern Nevada or other parts of the state. Even with the rise in mortgage rates, Las Vegas, Pahrump and other areas in Nevada are still more affordable buys than other parts of the United States.

I can definitely help you look for the best opportunities for real estate in Las Vegas, Pahrump and other areas. Now is the time to take advantage of deals in land and real estate properties. I have

had decades of experience in helping people look for that piece of real estate heaven they want to build their special place or something that their budget can afford.

My company, Precious Properties, is a fullservice company that has successfully helped its clientele find the best deals since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805-559-2476 and 702-538-4948 for more information, or send me an email at fely@precious-properties.com or fely. precious@gmail.com. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman is currently overseas, visiting the Holy Land. She is shown in photo above wading in the shores of the Mediterranean Sea in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Realtor Fely Quitevis- Bateman (holding the Philippine flag) at the Western Wall, or what is known as the Wailing Wall or Kotel. The Western Wall, located in the old city of Jerusalem, is considered the most religious site for Jewish people in the world and draws millions of visitors from around the world every year.

Russ Bateman and Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman take a photo at one of the tourist spots in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman poses in front of one of the great pyramids in Egypt, one of the seven ancient wonders of the world.

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

REALTOR FELY QUITEVIS-BATEMAN

Atty. RAyMond BulAon

IF you’ve ever had to file bankruptcy in the past for whatever reason, you probably told yourself that hopefully, you never have to do it again ever. But sometimes you never know where life takes you and if you ever find yourself in a financial bind where bankruptcy becomes necessary again, fear not. It is not your faultand there is no reason to feel bad or sorry for yourself. Here’s what you need to know if you’re in that situation?

There is no shame in trying to protect yourself, your family and everything you own when the stakes are just too high, and you need to do what you need to do. For example, a lot of people have been struggling financially since the pandemic started. All the government assistance helped, I’m sure, but that was all temporary. A lot of people have lost their incomes and their businesses in the last 2 years and have not been able to pay their bills.

I’ve been asked by a lot of people lately about how often you can get bankruptcy relief, so I decided to write this article. If you have filed bankruptcy before, you may be wondering whether it’s possible to do it again. Generally, the answer is that you can file bankruptcy as often as needed BUT subject to some limitations

Filing bankruptcy again? What you need to know

such as the following. I will try to simplify but here are the general rules:

Consecutive same Chapter filings: If you are filing under the same bankruptcy “chapter” (7 or 13), the timing is critical. If you are trying to file a Chapter 7 after you’ve already filed another Chapter 7 in the past, you need to wait 8 years from the date your last case was filed. For consecutive Chapter 13 filings: If you received a prior discharge in

all unsecured creditors in your past Chapter 13 case or you paid at least 70% of the unsecured claims and the plan represented your “best effort” and proposed in “good faith”.

Chapter 7, then Chapter 13: If you discharged your debts in a prior Chapter 7, you cannot obtain another discharge in a subsequent Chapter 13 filing unless four years have passed since your Chapter 7 filing date. This doesn’t mean, however, that

pay back the arrears through a 3 to 5-year payment plan.

There are other “tricky” rules you need to know about that apply to dismissals and conversions from one chapter to another, but I could just imagine how your head may be spinning by now trying to make sense of all these rules. The best thing to do if you are in a situation where you may need to file bankruptcy again (although you’ve already done so in the past) is to consult with a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney who can analyze your case and provide correct guidance.

For a free consultation, call Toll-Free 1-866-477-7772.

NOTE: Due to pandemic safety concerns, I am offering free consultations BY PHONE to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems.

What type of insurance do you need for your business

Insurance Made Easy

STARTING a business is no joke. It’s not for everyone.

that caused injury to the customer. If they sue, this policy can cover legal costs and payment to the injured party.

Chapter 13, you cannot receive a second discharge in any Chapter 13 case that is filed within 2 years from the date that your last case was filed.

Chapter 13, then Chapter 7:

If you obtained a prior discharge (i.e., a “debt wipe out”) under Chapter 13, you will not be allowed a second discharge in a subsequent Chapter 7 filing unless 6 years have passed from the filing of the Chapter 13 to the filing of your Chapter 7 case.

There is however an exception to this rule: You will be allowed a discharge in your current Chapter 7 case if you either paid

you cannot file a Chapter 13 if your intention is to pay creditors the best you can. It only means that since there is no discharge available, whatever is not paid through your Chapter 13 plain will still be your liability. Now you may ask: Why file a Chapter 13 then if a discharge is not available under these circumstances? The answer is that it depends on what your goals are in filing the current Chapter 13. For example, one reason for filing may be to get court protection while consolidating non-dischargeable debts such as IRS taxes. Or it may be to stop a foreclosure and

* * *

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.

*

* * None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray J. Bulaon has successfully helped over 6,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-477-7772.

If someone says starting a business is a walk in the park, they are lying to you. From idea to implementation, the journey involves a lot of moving parts. Lot of questions to be answered and intense planning is required. Some examples of questions to ask during the initial stages are: Are you going to have a storefront, or will you only do ecommerce? Will you be a solopreneur, or will you hire help right away? What type of marketing are you going to do? Do you need a website, logo, trademark, patent, and the list goes on.

Once a business is off the ground, more work and more questions present itself. Who to hire, how to train, when to start hiring, what payroll to use, where to bank, do you do LLC or S Corp and more decisions to be made.

When it comes to insurance. There are some essential types that you wish to be familiar with:

1. General liability insurance –This protects from bodily injury or property damage claim that your business has caused. Example 1: Slip and fall at your shop. This indemnifies the injured party if business is found liable. Example 2: If your worker went on a house call and damages property of the client, this policy could cover damages to the other party’s belongings.

2. Workers’ compensation –This is mandatory in most states. This provides benefits to workers if they suffer injury or illness that are work related. Example: A deli worker accidentally cut his fingers while preparing sandwich for a customer. This policy could provide treatment cost and lost wages.

3. Commercial property – This helps protect your owned or rented building, equipment, and furniture. Example: If there is fire or theft, this policy could replace your property from covered losses.

4. Commercial umbrella – This provides extra layer of liability protection over and above your other underlying liability coverage. In short, it kicks in when the liability coverage for your other policy is exhausted. Example: Judgement to an auto claim against your company is $1.5 Million and say your auto policy only has $1M. The remainder of $500k will come from the commercial umbrella subject to terms of policy.

5. Professional liability/ errors and omission – This covers claims from mistakes arising from professional services rendered by your business. Ex. You are beautician, and you made a mistake by putting wrong chemicals to client’s hair or face

6. Commercial auto – This covers your company car as well as property damage and bodily injury type of claim. Example: Your staff rear ends another car while running errands for work. The insurance will cover the claim to repair or replace the other car, the company car as well as injury to the other party subject to limits of coverage selected.

7. Business Office Policy Insurance or BOP – it is the most common requirement since it covers commercial property, general liability policy and loss of income among other things. There are more insurance policies that an entrepreneur may potentially need like Cyberspace liability, Identity Theft, Employment Practice Liability, Bond, etc. The list can go on. A trusted insurance advisor can guide you through these selections.

They say being an entrepreneur is like going through a roller coaster ride every day. There seems to be no “pause button”. There’s constant action and reaction. Each day brings new challenges and excitement. It involves a lot of risk, courage, foresight as well as sweat and the obvious need for financial capital to name a few. While it is challenging to own a business, it is also one of the most rewarding things to accomplish. There is a certain badge of pride that is associated with it.

So, while starting a business could seem like a daunting task. Don’t be discouraged. When it comes to insurance, choosing the right agent can simplify things for you. They can also assist with giving you options and help narrow down what your business really needs. Let the insurance expert do the heavy lifting and help guide you. Look for someone who you can trust and who has been around longer because experience matters. You already put up with so much in running your business, let getting the right coverage be as painless as possible. Put your mind at ease with an agent who knows and who cares. Visit us at www.costwiseinsurance. com. For questions or a free no-obligation quote email info@ costwiseinsurance.com.

* * * Melody Avecilla is an insurance expert. Her one-stop-shop agency has been a preferred go-to insurance resource for over a decade. She has a Masters in Business Administration from Loyola Marymount and earned her CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) designation at The American College. Her team has been voted best in the industry for years

Melody AvecillA

in a row. Fun fact about her. She has multiple patents for the world’s first retractable high heels. In between work, she hosts a global leadership podcast called “dreamers to leaders.” She’s takes a hyper focused approach in elevating customer experience in running her businesses. Insurance is her flag ship enterprise.

(Advertising Supplement)

“The best thing to do if you are in a situation where you may need to file bankruptcy again (although you’ve already done so in the past) is to consult with a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney who can analyze your case and provide correct guidance.”

Prayers for world leaders

St. Paul, in his letter to Timothy (1 Tm 2:1-8) calls us to pray “for kings and for all in authority” so that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity.”

BAlAGtAS

YOU shall shepherd my people Israel and shall be commander of Israel.” (2 Samuel 5:2)

In my prayerful moment, I often think of our political leaders and those running for government offices. Is their leadership motivated by the genuine call of God to serve our people, especially the poor and marginalized, and not on any selfish agenda? Do they exercise their roles within the perspectives of faith and belief in the Sovereign God?

Like us, political leaders are human beings with foibles and personal struggles. They may have strong leadership abilities but have flaws and a propensity to sin. They need our prayers.

It’s Pope Francis’ clamor to us—to pray for people in government, political leaders, and all those responsible for political institutions, nations, and regions. And so, in his Mass on November 16, 2022, in the Casa Santa Marta, he said that

Indeed, we must pray for our political leaders because the state of our nations, the world, and our financial and social lives depend on their leadership.

Pope Francis concluded his homily in Casa Santa Maria with these words:

“I ask you this favor: every one of you take five minutes, no more. If you are a leader, ask yourself: ‘Do I pray to the One who gave me power through the people.’”

“If you are not a leader, ‘Do I pray for my leaders? Yes, for this one and that one, because I like them, but for the one, no.’”

Religious leaders have the role and responsibility to prove the conscience of our leaders. They must co-exist and collaborate with political leaders to bring peace, justice, and equality.

The Congress of leaders of the World and Traditional Religions on September 15, 2021, in NurSultan, Kazakhstan, attended by Pope Francis, showed the importance of this role.

During this meeting, leaders of various world religions declared that “extremism,

radicalism, terrorism and all other forms of violence and wars, whatever their goals, have nothing to do with true religion and must be rejected in the strongest possible terms.”

“We call upon world leaders to abandon all aggressive and destructive rhetoric which leads to destabilization of the world and to cease from conflict and bloodshed in all corners of the world,” the leaders said. And they asked “religious leaders and prominent political figures from different parts of the world to tirelessly develop dialogue in the name of friendship, solidarity, and peaceful coexistence.”

As we celebrate Christ the King at this end of the liturgical year, let’s pray for all leaders in the world, both political and religious. May they always listen to the voice of God, urging them to work for peace, justice, equality, and solidarity!

* * *

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.

Caregivers must be paid overtime by Los Angeles County as joint employer

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights

Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr

THE State of California, in partnership with various counties throughout the state, administers an In-Home Supportive Services (“IHSS”) program to allow low-income elderly, blind, or disabled individuals to hire a caregiver to help them with daily activities, such as housework, meal preparation, and personal care. The recipients of IHSS assistance retain the right to hire, fire and supervise the work of the caregiver, including the right to set work schedules and approve the caregiver’s timesheets.

However, the caregiver submits those timesheets directly to the government, which issues their paychecks. Moreover, a caregiver can only be paid under the IHSS program if he or she attends an in-person orientation and training given by the county government, and signs state-issued forms. The county government maintains a registry of approved caregivers, coordinates background checks for such individuals, and provides

training to both the caregivers and IHSS recipients.

A recent decision from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals emphasizes that this economic and structural control was enough to make the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services a joint employer liable for unpaid overtime owed to caregivers employed under the IHSS program.

Under both federal and California law, an employee may have more than one employer responsible for compliance with all applicable wage-and-hour laws. In the Ninth Circuit case of Ray v. L.A. County Department of Public Social Services, this means that IHSS caregivers could have theoretically pursued payment of earned overtime wages from either the low-income recipients of IHSS care or the government agency that administers the IHSS program. But in light of the limited resources of lowincome recipients of the IHSS program, it is unlikely that a caregiver who is owed earned overtime can recover it from the direct recipients of their care. Any realistic recovery of unpaid overtime would need to come from the same public agencies that pay the regular wages of these caregivers.

California’s IHSS program serves hundreds of thousands of low-income recipients of In- Home Supportive Services, with more than 200,000 in Los Angeles County alone. The Ninth Circuit’s decision to hold the county government liable for IHSS caregivers’ earned overtime recognizes the value of such services, and affirms the caregivers’ rights to be properly compensated for their work.

* * * 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 nocost. 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, selected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine for 11 years, and is a past Presidential Awardee for Outstanding Filipino Overseas.]

Carla admits she still cries over ‘very painful’ split with Tom Heart reacts to being ‘international fashion icon’

(Advertising Supplement)

CARLA Abellana has confessed that there are times she still cries over her failed marriage with actor Tom Rodriguez, saying that the breakup is a “serious personal change” that is “very painful.”

The actress opened up on her separation from Rodriguez during the second part of her interview with Nelson Canlas for his “Updated with Nelson Canlas” Spotify podcast on Thursday, Nov. 17. Abellana was asked whether she still cries over the breakup, to which she replied, “Oo naman (Definitely).”

“Napaka-natural lang, kasi parte ‘yun ng pain, parte ‘yun ng pag-heal. Ang tao naman— kasi ang dami kong nababasang books—ang tao naman kapag nag-heal hindi ibig sabihin na okay na siya or nagstay na siya doon o never na siyang iiyak ulit,” she told Canlas.

(It

mean they are okay or they will remain [okay] or will never cry again.)

Abellana stressed that what she experienced with her split with Rodriguez was a “serious personal change,” so she believes it is just normal to cry or break down when triggered by a song or a movie.

“Ang katawan ng tao natural lang naman na kapag nalungkot, iiyak, and kapag ganun you will just let it out. Hindi mo pwedeng i-stop sarili mo or i-judge sarili mo or pigilan ‘yung iyak mo from falling, your tears,” she said.

(It is natural for a person to cry when they are sad, and when that happens you will just let it out. You cannot stop yourself or judge yourself or stop your tears from falling.)

“Napakaimportante na

ACTRESS Heart Evangelista was anything but snub at last week’s 45th anniversary fashion show of New York-based international Filipina designer Josie Natori in The Peninsula Manila Hotel.

Heart accommodated everyone who greeted her and flanked her for photos at the Natori show. She even granted Philstar.com an exclusive interview on Thursday, November 17.

In fact, when Philstar.com asked Heart for her reaction to her new moniker given by fans and news outlets as an “international fashion icon” for representing the Philippines in various fashion weeks for years now, Heart was quick to declare in all humility: “Ay my, no! I’m not!”

According to her, she is merely savoring every moment of her time at the fashion shows.

“Some people say that I am (international fashion icon), but I really do enjoy what I’m doing abroad.”

She said she is back to the country to use the worldwide attention she got to promote more Filipino designers and talents into the global stage.

“I’m back here! And I also do a lot of support for our designers.”

Among those designers is Josie Cruz Natori, who marked her brand’s 45th anniversary with its first-ever dance fashion presentation with Ballet Philippines.

Heart said of the Natori aesthetic: “I love it! Because now, it’s all about self-expression. It’s all about feeling comfortable, feeling sexy at the same time. I love the vibrance of the prints always.”

As for the Natori silhouettes she goes for, Heart vouched: “I love her kimono outfits, the drapes, and I also love the caftans. Everything, actually. It’s so flexible like an obi belt. Beautiful!” (By Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/Philstar.com)

Carla Abellana

Photo from Instagram/@carlaangeline

Heart Evangelista

Photo from Instagram/@iamhearte

is just natural because it is part of pain, part of healing. People—because I have read many books—[I learned] that when people heal, it does not

Can I get a green card if I had a previous marriage petition denied based on fraud?

DEAR Attorney Tan, I recently married a U.S. Citizen, who is my second husband. He has filed an immigrant visa petition and green card application for me. My husband recently received from USCIS a Notice of Intent to Deny the petition that he filed on my behalf. The Notice indicated that the immigrant visa petition could not be approved since the USCIS had determined that I previously entered into a fraudulent marriage to get a green card several years ago. My ex-husband previously filed an immigrant petition on my behalf several years ago, which was denied since USCIS determined that I only married him to get a green card. My second husband and I truly love each other. What are my options? – In Love but Out of Status Dear In Love but Out of Status,

Under INA Section 204(c), a person who “attempted or conspired to enter into a marriage” in order to receive permanent resident status in the U.S. is prohibited from obtaining USCIS approval of an immigrant visa petition. Simply stated, Section 204(c) prohibits approval of any immigrant visa petition if there has been a finding of “marriage fraud” in a prior marriage-based petition. Based on the above law, your case seems at first glance like an “open-and-shut” case in favor of denial. However, you still have hope of getting a green card—a person can apply for and get his immigrant petition approved despite the prior finding of “marriage fraud”

under certain circumstances. You may ask, how is this possible? Isn’t Section 204(c) straightforward? Not quite. The answer lies in the fact that USCIS must independently examine the prior finding of “marriage fraud” in considering the subsequently filed immigrant visa petition. Before invoking the Sec. 204(c) bar to approval of a subsequent visa petition, USCIS must make an independent determination of fraud based upon the record, including but not limited to any evidence gathered during adjudication of the prior visa petition, but may not parrot or rely on the conclusions made by other adjudicators. USCIS must have “substantial and probative” evidence of “marriage fraud.”

Matter of Tawfik, 20 I. & N. Dec. 166, 168.

The determination is to be made by the USCIS district director while adjudicating the subsequent visa petition. Matter of Samsen, 15 I. & N. Dec. 28, 1974 WL 29995 (B.I.A. 1974).

The district director should not give conclusive effect to the determinations made in the prior proceedings, but should reach his own independent conclusion based on the evidence actually before him. Matter of F-, 9 I. & N. Dec. 684 (BIA 1962).

Therefore, in cases such as

yours in which the USCIS has indicated it intends to deny the subsequent immigrant visa petition due to the prior finding of “marriage fraud,” new evidence can be submitted that demonstrates that the prior finding of “marriage fraud” was incorrect—i.e., evidence that shows that the prior marriage petition was based on a bona fide marriage, or that explains that the prior denial was based on an incomplete or inaccurate assessment of the facts. In cases in which the subsequent immigrant visa petition has already been denied, this new evidence should be submitted as part of a motion to reconsider. I recommend that you seek an experienced attorney to assist you in properly presenting the law and facts to the USCIS adjudicator to address the Section 204(c) bar.

* * *

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.

* * *

Darrick V. Tan, Esq. is admitted to practice law in California and Nevada. Mr. Tan is a graduate of UCLA and Southwestern University School of Law. He is a member of the Consumers Attorney Association of Los Angeles and is a former member of the Board of Governors of the Philippine American Bar Association. LAW OFFICES OF DARRICK V. TAN, 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Tel: 323-6390277. Email: info@dtanlaw.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

Matteo reveals how Sarah went...

odds, who are so brave,” he added.

Matteo said that Sarah went against all odds for him.

“I’d like to also give it up to my wife, that she went against all odds for me. At the end of the day, love is the decision of two individuals, not about the people in the family or the people around them anymore. It’s about you and your partner,” he said.

“Always put God in the middle. Always respect each other. Kung meant to be ‘yan, darating ang panahon na magiging kayo ulit,” he advised.

Matteo and Sarah tied the knot in a secret ceremony on February 2020. g

Senior seeks Chapter 7 relief for $20K credit cards

Debt Relief

Atty. LAwrence yAng

THE client is 66. He says he is now old all of a sudden. He migrated here in 2004. He says he has been working hard since he arrived, but hasn’t really been able to amass any wealth. He worked various jobs paying $10 to $15 per hour and never bought a car. He only rents a room for $400 a month. He uses public transportation to get around and to get to work. Mostly, he uses the bus.

So he has to do some walking from the bus stop to wherever he is going. About four years ago, he was treated for some kind of cancer. Chemotherapy worked and he has been cancer free so far. The problem, of course, is that for five years you are under observation to see if there is any recurrence. If there is a recurrence, you have to battle cancer again. Another problem is that his knees are becoming a problem. They hurt when he walks. I asked, “why don’t you use a cane?” He said he’s going to have some surgery done on them.

His general feeling is that he’s not as strong as before. He feels weaker than before. So he doesn’t want to keep on working anymore. He says he owes $20,000in credit cards. He has timely paid these cards for the last 10 years at $500 a month. That is the minimum payment required which pays all interest and a minuscule principal. After paying $60,000 for minimum payments for the last 10 years, he said, would you believe, I still owe the very same $20,000. I said, I know. It doesn’t make any sense that you should pay $60,000 but still owe the same $20,000. But that’s the way those cards work with minimum payments. You’re forever on the hook.

I asked if he is now on Social Security. He said, not yet. I guess he’s waiting for the day he stops working to claim full social security benefits plus some. As you probably now, after 66, social security benefits will increase by about 7% a year until you reach 70, at which time, your social security benefits will be bigger, maybe 30% bigger than at age 66.

I’ve heard stories about this waiting game with social security.

My friend was 68 and still waiting. Then he died unexpectedly from complications from diabetes. He was able to manage his diabetes for well over 20 years. But who knows what happened. One day, his blood sugar just shot up and they could not bring it down, then his heart failed.

He was never able to claim his enhanced social security. Life’s not fair, really. People die when they don’t expect to die. You may be all young and strong with your whole future ahead of you. You get married in the Maldives with your sweetheart. Then you both go snorkeling, the current is too strong, and you’re both swept further away into the ocean. You both try to swim back, but it’s too far. You both drown, and so sorry, you both die on your honeymoon. Did you plan on this happening? Nope. Or, you go to Phuket for your honeymoon. But the Tsunami kills you while your bride is safe in the hotel, totally unexpected. Such is life. Even if you live up to 96, it’s still short. But would you believe that I met this couple last Christmas and the man is 91, a physician. He said he retired five years ago from UCLA. They walk two miles every day and eat a Mediterranean diet. He looked young for 91, probably looked about 70. He said he feels strong and even jumped around to show me how healthy he was.

He said he took no medications at all. So if you want to be around a long time, walk two miles every day and eat a Mediterranean diet. I’m sharing this with you for free. “Salud my friend, may you live to 120.”

So the question is why saddle yourself with debt and be miserable every day when life is so short? Just get rid of all your debts if you qualify for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13.

Going back to the senior client, he says he wants to retire now but his social security will only be $700 a month. Just the minimum monthly payment on the $20,000 in credit cards is already $500. He won’t have enough to pay his rent if he doesn’t get rid of the credit cards now. If he gets rid of the $20,000 cards now and moves to a senior housing room, he might be able to rent a room for $250.

With $700 of social security, he will still have about $500 left for food and public transportation.  Business owner seeks Chapter 7 for $120K credit cards, business credit lines

The second client is only 60. His wife left him some time ago.

So he is now living by himself. His rent is about $800. His son works but lives by himself and doesn’t help him. Right now, he has zero income. Don’t forget, to get early social security, you have to be 62, and you only get 70% in full benefits. I don’t know where his income is coming from. This is what I call no visible means of support, but there’s some income coming in from somewhere.

He says that he started a business that requires him to have an office here in LA and another office abroad. It’s a servicerelated business. So he has two office rents to pay monthly. The total monthly office rent here and abroad is $5,000. He financed this business with loans consisting of credit cards, bank business credit lines totaling $120,000, and some personal loans. He got these loans 10 months ago. This is month eleven and the business doesn’t have enough cash flow for him to pay the $5,000 office rent. He has been paying the loans of $120,000 with minimum monthly payments for the last eight months. He stopped paying on month nine. So, the business is now dead in the water, “Kaput.”

His creditors are calling and asking for payment which he can’t do. I examined his financial situation and told him that he can do a Chapter 7 to start again fresh by wiping out the $120,000 and the personal loans. The matter at issue here, of course, is if there is any intent to defraud creditors since all these loans are “very new,” all of them less than a year old. He needs an experienced bankruptcy lawyer to assure the success of his Chapter 7. I would expect some opposition perhaps from several of his creditors.

If you need debt relief, please set an appointment to see me. I will analyze your case personally.

* * * DISCLAIMER: NONE OF THE FOREGOING IS CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE FOR ANYONE. EACH CASE IS DIFFERENT. THERE IS NO ABSOLUTELY NO ATTORNEY-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP ESTABLISHED BY READING THIS ARTICLE.

* * *

Lawrence Bautista

(Advertising Supplement)

Can I file a divorce in California if my spouse resides outside California?

Barrister’s Corner

Atty kenneth UrsUA reyes

THIS is a common question among people contemplating divorce in California when the other spouse does not live in the state. The California Courts has the power to grant a divorce, annulment, or legal separation if either party is domiciled in the state. Domicile is where a person lives and intends to remain. However, there is an additional requirement if you are seeking a divorce rather than annulment or legal separation. To obtain a divorce in California, one of the parties must have been a resident of California for six months immediately before the filing of the divorce petition. Responding spouses can use this requirement as a defense if the Petitioning spouse does not meet such requirement when the petitioner filed for divorce. In addition, divorce petitions may be filed in the county where at least one spouse resided for 3 months immediately prior to filing the petition.

Now apart from getting a divorce, legal separation, or annulled status, there may be issues relating to distributing

community and separate properties between the spouses and awarding support payments.

In order for the California Courts to have the power to make orders, the California Courts must have personal jurisdiction over the respondent. Personal jurisdiction means the respondent has minimum contacts with California even if not physically here. Some of the factors looked at is respondents presence in the state, domicile, residence, citizenship, consent, appearance in the action, doing business in the state, doing an act that causes an effect in the state, ownership in the state, other relationship to the state. If the respondent does not have minimum contact with California, respondent may challenge any orders relating to distribution of property and support based on the court’s lack of jurisdiction.

With regards to initial child custody issues, these issues are resolved under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act. California Courts have the power to make initial custody orders if it is the child’s home state at the time the action was filed. California may also assume power to make custody orders if California has been the child’s home state within six months before the action was filed, the child is absent form California, and a parent continues to live in California. California may also exercise jurisdiction

when no other state is the child’s home state or when all court’s having jurisdiction over the child has declined to act and deferred to California as the more appropriate place to make custody orders. California may also exercise jurisdiction if no other state would have jurisdiction over the child.

*

* * 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, APC.  This article is not a solicitation.

* * *

Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is

President

Association.

Philippine

is a

of both the Family law section

Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

Carla admits she still cries...

i-acknowledge mo ‘yung emotions mo at any particular moment… so kailangan mong i-recognize ‘yun, kasi in a way, that’s respecting yourself and body mo, your heart,” Abellana added.

(It is important to acknowledge your emotions at any particular moment… so you need to recognize it because in a way, that’s respecting yourself and your body, your heart.)

Abellana had stated in an earlier interview that she could not give a definite answer on whether she still loved Rodriguez. For her, other emotions were

still “taking over” her heart so she could not give a “yes” or “no” answer.

Prior to this, Abellana spoke about the status of her life, saying that she still believes in love and there are other forms of it that she can receive from family and friends.

The actress had also stated that her divorce from Rodriguez had not fully sunk in yet as it is still not recognized in the Philippines. Rodriguez, an American citizen, was able to obtain a divorce decree in the United States where he is currently based. (By Dana Cruz/Inquirer.net)

Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli Photo from Instagram/@

a Board Certified Family Law Specialist. He was

of the

American Bar

He

member

and

Yang specializes in Bankruptcy, Business, Real Estate and Civil Litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 20274 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789 or 1000 S. Fremont Ave., Mailstop 58, Building A-10 South Suite 10042, Alhambra, CA 91803.