112523 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

NOVEMBER 25-28, 2023 Volume 33 - No. 92 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

Marcos eyes PH return to ICC

by CATHERINE S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday, November 24 said that the government is considering returning to the International Criminal Court (ICC) nearly five years after its withdrawal over objections to the court's decision to investigate the Duterte administration's war on illegal drugs.

Marcos made the statement even as he maintained his stand that "outsiders" should not meddle with the country's own probe of crimes allegedly committed by law enforcers carrying out the anti-drug campaign of President Rodrigo Duterte.

In a media interview in Taguig City, the president stressed that the jurisdiction of the ICC remains a problem, since the Philippines has withdrawn from

the Rome Statute.

"As I have always said, there are still problems in terms of jurisdiction and sovereignty. Now, if we can solve these problems, then that would be something else," he said.

There are fundamental questions that need to be resolved, Marcos said.

"If you are talking about the jurisdiction of the ICC, especially since we have withdrawn from the Rome Statute a few years back, that brings into question whether or not this is actually possible," he said.

"There is also a question: should we return to the fold of the ICC? So, that's again under study. So, we'll just keep looking at it and see what our options are," the president said.

Duterte withdrew the Philippines' membership  PAGE A2

Consing sworn in as Maharlika Invest Marcos seeks support during DATELINE USA meeting with SoCal Fil-Ams How misinformation Corp Pres, CEO

Fil-Am community members anticipate Marcos’ arrival at the JW Marriott in Downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, November 18.

AJPress photos by Donnabelle L. Gatdula

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

may threaten the 2024 election

AS the 2024 U.S. presidential election nears, misinformation threatens to make the race more of a battleground than a civic activity.

At a November 17 Ethnic Media Services briefing, experts in fair elections, civil rights, and digital justice discussed how misinformation, as an urgent threat to the 2024 elections, is spread by obstacles to voting access, social media misinformation, high turnover of election officials and artificial intelligence “deepfakes.”

Threats to voter access Gowri Ramachandran, deputy director of the Elections & Government Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, said that key to fair elections is undisrupted voter access. Accordingly, election officials should be resilient “in the event of touchscreen voting machines breaking down, or electronic poll books becoming unusable, or a breach of the voter registration database.”

“We recommend practices like backing off

MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday, November 24 swore in Rafael Consing as president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC).

According to a Palace statement, Consing will have three years in this post.

After the ceremony, Marcos and Consing discussed plans for the corporation and the mandate of the MIC head during the first 100 days.

“The topics discussed include the support needed to operationalize the MIC and the priority investment areas such as tourism infrastructure, agriforestry, energy security, digital infrastructure, and financial services,” said Presidential Communications Office.

The media was informed about the oath-taking after the event.

Malacañang announced Consing’s appointment as MIC chief in early November. (Jean Rafael D. Consing Inquirer.net photo Mangaluz/Inquirer.net)

by DONNABELLE L. GATDULA AJPress

LOS ANGELES — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was welcomed by over 1,000 Filipino American community leaders and members last Saturday, November 18 during his first visit to the city since taking office.

Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. addresses a crowd of 1,000 Filipino Americans in Downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, November 18.

Marcos, with his First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and the rest of his delegation, arrived at the Los Angeles International Airport on a Presidential plane Friday night, November 17, after attending the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Week in San Francisco.

Before the meeting with the Fil-Am community in LA at the JW Marriott, Marcos had a briefing and tour of SpaceX headquarters located in Hawthorne.

Philippine Consul General of Los Angeles Edgar Badajos, who headed the welcoming committee in LA, told the Asian Journal that this was a momentous event as the Fil-Am community had an opportunity to hear updates on Marcos’ plans and programs.

“We are just so happy and we feel blessed that the president came to meet with the Filipino American community here in Southern California because this is where you find the biggest diaspora in the U.S. and outside of the Philippines,” he said.

The greater Los Angeles area is home to the largest population of Filipinos with over 500,000,

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Medi-Cal transforming PH not stirring trouble in West Philippine Sea - Defense chief public health care

by MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN Philstar.com

AS Medi-Cal expands next year to include all undocumented immigrants and new services well beyond the doctor’s office, California is on the national front lines of transforming public health care.

In a November 15 briefing co-hosted by Ethnic Media Services and the Department of Health Care Services, DHCS experts and groundlevel community health workers discussed this expansion to include all immigrants and new services; the latest data on eligibility redetermination, and the transition to new care plans in 21 counties statewide.

Since the end of the federal COVID-19 emergency in May 2022, Medi-Cal has resumed its annual redetermination of enrollees’ eligibility. Giving an overview of the latest data on this yearlong process, Yingjia Huang said as of September 30, 15.2 million people “are on our case rolls” — over a third of California’s population. “I’m proud to report that, overall, we’re holding steady as a state.”

Where are we with Medi-Cal redetermination?

Because California has the highest Medicaid caseload in the U.S., Huang — the Assistant Deputy Director of Health Care Benefits and Eligibility for DHCS — said over one million people have faced redetermination each month since June, the first month of actual disenrollments. In

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MANILA — China is “reversing the truth” in accusing the Philippines of stirring trouble by conducting joint maritime patrols with the United States military in the West Philippine Sea, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said on Friday, November 24.

“The Philippines is not stirring up trouble. This is a

reverse of the truth, it’s an absolute falsity for China to say that, and it is once again reversing the truth consistent with its narrative,” Teodoro told reporters.

“Who’s occupying, who’s making incursions in the South China Sea, in the West Philippine Sea especially? It’s China,” Teodoro said.

“The Philippines is not stirring up trouble as we always reiterate. Our interests are to protect our rights in accordance with UNCLOS and international law which China purports to respect in words but

unfortunately not in deeds, and so whatever China says about this, I think their credibility is very, very low,” he added, referring to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Teodoro issued the statement a day after the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command completed a three-day joint sea and air patrol in Philippine waters.

He said there would be more joint patrols with the  PAGE A4

‘Don’t embarrass our justice system’: Sara speaks up for father as House discusses ICC drug war probe

by CHRISTINA CHI Philstar.com

FAMILY BONDING. A family visits the Belen (nativity scene) display at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City to take pictures amid the bright Christmas lights on Wednesday, Nov. 22. The life-size display depicts the nativity of Jesus Christ with Mary, Joseph, and the three kings.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

MANIL — Slighting from recent House calls urging cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC), Vice President Sara Duterte has spoken up in defense of her father and argued that local courts can resolve drug war cases without the help of the ICC. Duterte issued on Thursday, November 23 for the first-time a strongly-worded statement criticizing the ICC’s decision to resume its investigation of the alleged crimes Vice President Sara Duterte  PAGE A3 Philstar.com photo

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FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Marcos seeks support during...

PAGE A1

as of the latest data.

The well-attended assembly of Filipino Americans in Southern California, Badajos said, is a testimony of the community's support for their home country.

“You can see the big crowd today and everybody is so happy, so eager to listen to the president... tell them all the good things that have been happening back home since he became president. I think they’re just so eager to also hear from the president what can they do more to help in nationbuilding, which is a collective effort. It’s not just, the president’s efforts that we have to look up. The president needs to be supported by the Filipino people, wherever they are, and when we have that support, then we can be sure of even higher economic development and prosperity for our people,” the LA consul said.

Cora Aragon Soriano, an active Fil-Am community leader, in an interview with the Asian Journal, said the great turnout only signified the solidarity and loyalty of Filipinos wherever they are in the world.

“I am honored that he is visiting Los Angeles and of course, we have to respect the office of the President and as a community leader, I am so glad that he is here in LA,” Soriano said.

Echoing Badajos’ optimism, Soriano said “I expect for him to give an update of the status of the Philippines and what is his foresight and what are his objectives and goals for the Philippines to make it more better, I know it’s good now but to make it better."

Fashion designer Carl Andrada, for his part, said he’s so glad to see the First Lady joining President Marcos, as she has been one of the most keen supporters of the fashion industry, particularly the use of Philippine fabric in promoting Philippine fashion to the world.

“I am delighted to see the First Lady here. She is very much into fashion, and most especially the use of Philippine fabric,” he said, adding that “I am promoting Philippine fabric in all my creations and I am so glad that the art and the fashion is being, in his presidency, is getting noticed and I am looking forward to more Philippine fashion [and]

Philippine fabric to be promoted.

I hope with the support of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry, we can continue to promote our world-class fabric, that’s what I am really looking forward to.”

Andrada, who started his career in the Middle East before moving to the U.S., is grateful for the Marcos administration’s programs for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

“This will create a positive impact on his image as a president, and on all of us Filipino Americans who wanted to hear his plan for the Philippines, especially for the overseas Filipino workers. I myself was an OFW before in the Middle East and now here,” Andrada said.

One of President Marcos’ avid political supporters, Tancredo Guray Jr. of BBM 2.0 (USA) president for California, highlighted BBM’s achievements in less than two years in Malacanang.

“He’s not disappointing us.

With less than two years in office, there has been significant progress in the Philippines," he said.

Former Mayor of the City of Sierra Madre Rachelle Pastor Arizmendi, whose family is mostly from Laoag, Ilocos Norte, on the other hand, said she’s happy to see Filipinos coming together and supporting each other for a common good.

“When we talk about Filipinos being more engaged...if this is one way or multiple ways that Filipinos can get engaged, it’s a fantastic event. If we think about nationality, and the pride of the Philippines, people come together and we’re here to support each and making sure that we really are a community,” said Arizmendi.

On the business sector side, CSI Professionals Inc. director Rene Martinez said, “It’s a very positive and re-energizing event for us Filipino Americans. especially knowing that the president is adamant to have a new direction for our country.

We’d like to conform and join him in his positive outlook for the Filipinos and for the Philippines in general. It would be nice to hear from him what his plans are, what’s his vision and we’d like to support him in whatever way we can.”

In his remarks, Marcos lauded Filipino Americans for always bringing pride to the Philippines.

“When I go on a trip, when I go to travel in other countries and I meet the leaders of those countries, they have nothing but good things to say about Filipinos. And that is something that – that is something that we hold close to our hearts.

And here in LA, LA County, surrounding states, dito talaga ang pinakamalaking Filipino community dito sa Amerika, which probably makes you the biggest Filipino community outside of the Philippines. And you have made us all very, very proud,” the president said.

President Marcos talked about the recent developments of his APEC meetings and enjoined the community to support all his future programs for the betterment of the Philippines.

The chief executive also urged Fil-Ams to always take time to visit the Philippines and commended the overseas Filipinos for continuing to support the Philippine economy through their sustained remittances to their respective families in the country.

“On behalf of our countrymen back home, I appreciate the remittances that you have sent, and continue to send. Personal remittances over – of Filipino workers rose 2.2 percent,” he said.

“My dream, and that of the entire Philippine government, the state, is to one day make working overseas just one of your many options available – many options available to our country. But we cannot make this dream come true all by ourselves, we need your support and we know that you will gladly walk, and continue working with us in realizing our goal,” he said.

“After all, your love for our country and people has not been extinguished by the years that you have spent away from our motherland. Proof of this is your presence here tonight, and the support that you continue to provide your loved ones, our countrymen back home,” he added.

He called on all the Filipino Americans during the meeting to help him in realizing this dream.

“Help us realize this dream.

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Marcos eyes PH return to...

PAGE A1 in the ICC in 2019, a year after The Hague-based tribunal began its preliminary probe into the crackdown during which 6,181 people were killed, based on the latest government data.

The ICC prosecutors estimate the death toll to be between 12,000 and 30,000.

In July, the ICC decided to resume its inquiry into the anti-drug war, noting that the Philippine government was not "making a real or genuine effort" in pursuing its own investigation.

The Marcos administration rejected the ICC's move and said it does not welcome the presence of ICC prosecutors in the country.

There is, however, a growing sentiment in the House of Representatives to allow the international tribunal to resume its probe.

A House resolution is calling on the Marcos administration to work with the ICC in probing alleged crimes against humanity committed during the Duterte presidency.

The resolution was authored by House Human Rights Committee Chairman Bienvenido Abante Jr. and 1-Rider Party-list Rep. Ramon Rodrigo Gutierrez.

A similar resolution was earlier filed by the Makabayan bloc.

On Friday, the president said it is "not unusual" for House lawmakers to favor an ICC investigation.

The resolutions "are just expressing or manifesting the sense of the House that perhaps it's time to allow or to cooperate with the ICC investigations.

But as I have always said, there are still problems in terms of jurisdiction and sovereignty," the president said.

He said the country could solve its domestic affairs, including issues raised over Duterte's war on illegal drugs.

It is "not right" for any "outsider" to meddle in the Philippines' affairs, since the country has a working justice system, Marcos said.

Also on Friday, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said he will seek clarification from Malacañang on whether the country will rejoin the ICC. "I will clarify if we have an intention to be members again

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) visits one of the rooms of the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital in Taguig City during its inauguration on Friday, Nov. 24.

PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

of the ICC because of the House resolutions, how it affects the whole universe of the ICC, and the Philippine government as it is right now," Remulla said.

The House resolutions raise more questions, Remulla said.

"So are we going to be members of the ICC first for these things to happen? That is why I said we need to thoroughly study this matter," he said.

HR 1477 states that despite the country's withdrawal from the Rome Statute, the jurisdiction of the ICC was reinforced by the Supreme Court of the Philippines when it rendered a judgment stating that "the ICC retains jurisdiction over any and all acts committed by government actors until March 17, 2019."

The resolution urges the appropriate government departments "to extend their full cooperation to the ICC Prosecutor with respect to its investigation of any alleged crime within the jurisdiction of the ICC." HR 1477 and 1393 were taken up at the House Committee on Justice a few days after they were submitted to the plenary.

House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe said the resolutions were being treated like any other ordinary measure that has to go through the usual legislative process.

"As Chair of the Committee on Rules, I know for a fact that there is no instruction from the Office of the Speaker that requires us to give special attention to the House Resolution seeking our cooperation with the ICC. This will be treated like all other

House Resolutions, but we have to respect the autonomy of the legislative process and the necessity for adherence to established procedures," Dalipe said.

The House leadership "will not suppress any member of Congress who is advocating for the support of the ICC in investigating his antidrug campaign," he said.

"The House is composed of 310 independent minds and diverse cultural and political backgrounds, so it is important that we hear the sentiment of everyone," Dalipe said.

Former presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo warned the House not to "undermine the authority" of the president.

"Having made repeated pronouncements on the absence of jurisdiction by the ICC over our country, it behooves the legislature as another branch of government to support the official position of the president," Panelo said.

"To do otherwise is to undermine the authority of the president and present to the outside world that the two branches of our government are at war with each other," he said.

The president's "reference to undertaking an 'under study' on the House resolution asking the Executive Department to cooperate with the ICC and allow an investigation on the alleged extra-judicial killings — is a courteous and diplomatic response to the said House resolution," he said. (With reports from Franco Jose C. Baroña and Red Mendoza/ManilaTimes.net)

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DATELINE USA

PRECIOUS SMILE. A baby about to undergo cleft palate surgery is given a balloon with a smiley, at the UniDav Hospital in Davao City on Thursday, Nov. 23. The life-changing surgery was facilitated by the Noordhoff Craniofacial Foundation Philippines, Inc. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

‘Don’t embarrass our justice system...

PAGE A1 against humanity committed during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s terms as president, and earlier, mayor of Davao City.

This comes after the House on Wednesday, November 22, started deliberating at least two resolutions calling on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to welcome the ICC’s probe into the antiillegal drugs campaign of the elder Duterte, who earlier called the lower chamber the “most rotten institution” after it stripped Sara of P650 million in confidential funds.

Marcos, who insisted on shutting out the ICC, has yet to change his position even as family and lawyers of victims of extrajudicial killings believe the ICC’s intervention will provide the “fairest and most just opportunity for justice” for their killed loved ones.

In her statement, Sara said that the lower chamber must “respect” Marcos’ previous stance of not supporting ICC’s probe.

“Given this clear standpoint, we urge the House to respect the position of the President, who is

the chief architect of our foreign policy,” Sara said.

The vice president argued that allowing ICC prosecutors to conduct their probe in the country “is not only patently unconstitutional but effectively belittles and degrades our legal institutions.”

“Let us not insult and embarrass our justice system by showing the world that we believe only foreigners have the ability to provide justice and fairness in our own country,” Sara said in Filipino. 

in digitalization, in innovation, and particularly for our micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

During the APEC meeting, he reported that the Philippines signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the United States concerning peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

“We are confident that these meetings will bear fruit in terms of more trade and foreign direct investments that will help propel our economy to greater levels of development and prosperity for our people,” he said.

“In these meetings, I also emphasized our priority towards sustainable development and the

urgent need to address climate change, to build resiliency, and do the adaptation that is necessary to build resilience against destructive consequences of severe weather,” he added.

In LA, he said they were able to explore the possibility of a satellite broadband service to be available for the Philippines.

“We look forward to improving broadband connectivity in the Philippines through Starlink and through all the others,” he said.

After his LA stop, Marcos visited the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in Honolulu, Hawaii and also held a gathering with the local Fil-Am community there. 

Marcos seeks support during...

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Continue being the ambassadors that you have been for our Filipino culture and relentless champions of the Philippines as a tourism, trade, and investment destination in Asia,” he said.

In his more than 30-minute speech during the gathering, Marcos also talked about the significant productive discussions he had in APEC and other related business and investment talks.

He said he pushed for investments in clean energy and affordable energy transition financing, food security, and we focused on research and development for the benefit of small-scale farmers, in health,

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PH not stirring trouble in West...

PAGE A1 U.S. and possibly even with other countries supporting the call for a rules-based international order and a peaceful resolution of sea disputes.

The joint activity, held from Nov. 21 to 23, was also a show of the country’s firm resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial rights, the AFP said.

“There will be several iterations of joint patrols and this should not be an issue because it is entirely within the rights of the Philippines to patrol anywhere, whether in the high seas or in the area where it has jurisdiction pursuant to international law,” Teodoro explained.

“In the seas we have right of innocent passage and the freedom of navigation. Within our area, we have the sole police jurisdiction over the area and it is a question for the Philippines and not any other country to determine,” he said.

Teodoro said other nations interested in joining joint naval patrols are Japan, South Korea and even Canada, among others, and it is up to the AFP to make plans for

such and how to carry them out.

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the three-day inaugural joint sea and air patrol between the Philippines and the U.S. was a success because “we feel that we have met the objectives that we have set forth before the conduct of the joint maritime and air patrols and so we are confident that we are now more able to operate with our ally, the United States.”

“Kasi ang isang tinesting natin doon yung (Because what we’re testing there is) interoperability of our navy as well as our air force and as we saw from the pictures and from the video, also from the reports that were given to us, we were able to achieve that interoperability with our ally. So we’re very happy with the results of the joint maritime and air patrol,” he added.

Brawner said the activity also shows that the Philippines is “telling the world that it is possible, it’s possible to operate within our exclusive economic zone without necessarily harassing other countries. We can easily operate, so this is one message that we are

DATELINE USA

telling the world.”

He likewise confirmed that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy indeed shadowed or followed Philippine and U.S. ships during the joint maritime patrol.

“We expected this and we are also thankful that there was no untoward incidents that happened during this, the whole joint patrol, the whole three days,” Brawner said, noting that China has always been shadowing not only Philippine ships but also other ships in the area.

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año also denounced China for claiming the Philippines is now using foreign forces for its maritime patrols.

“The Philippines categorically rejects China’s assertion that the Philippines has enlisted ‘foreign forces’ to patrol the South China Sea. The joint patrols conducted by the Philippines with the United States are well within our rights as a sovereign nation and in accordance with international law, the RP-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty and the Visiting Forces Agreement,” he said in a statement. 

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AGRI-FISHERY EXPO. The Agricultural Training Institute-Davao Region opens the “Kalambuan sa Kaumahan: An ATI Davao Region Expo” at Ayala Malls Abreeza in Davao City on Friday, Nov. 24. The two-day expo aims to raise public awareness on government programs and extension services for farmers and young agripreneurs while showcasing products and services produced by ATI-certified assisted farms.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

How misinformation may threaten the...

PAGE A1 the voter database well before the election, having plenty of emergency and provisional paper ballot supplies, and doing capacity testing for electronic systems,” she continued. “Small disruptions like these can be fodder for a lot of misinformation about how voters can vote, or even about the whole election being unfair.”

Another security threat to the upcoming election involves poll worker shortages — which occurred in 2020 due to the pandemic, particularly given that many poll volunteers tend to be elderly — but “you also get shortages when election workers feel unsafe due to threats and harassment,” Ramachandran said.

“To help poll workers feel safe, we recommend that election officials implement security upgrades like bulletproof glass and keycard access … and make it clear that threats like doxxing and disinformation will not be tolerated,” she added.

Offline consequences of online politics Social media companies play a major role in perpetuating misinformation, said Nora Benavidez, senior counsel and director of Digital Justice and Civil rights at Free Press. “Particularly since the January 6 insurrection, the biggest companies — Meta, Tik Tok, Google, YouTube, Twitter — finally seem to accept that their failure to moderate content played a role in undermining public safety and democracy.”

The tens of thousands of layoffs from these companies over the past year, deprioritizing accountability of accurate content, “point to where their values lie,” she added.

“There’s a downstream effect where mainstream media outlets, like CNN and the LA Times, often digest unverified misinformation and disinformation originating on social media … and that will have grave implications towards the next 12 months.”

To promote accurate content around the elections, Benavidez said these tech companies

should reinvest in staffing teams to “moderate information and safeguard election integrity,” more efficiently moderate political ads across languages, develop increased transparency practices like data analytics reports shared with researchers, journalists and policymakers, and bolster political ad policies to prohibit content promoting misinformation about polling locations, practices or candidates.

Election official turnover and misinformation On the polling side, too, misinformation threats to a fair 2024 election are worsened by a high turnover of election workers, said William Adler, associate director of the Elections Project at the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Administering elections has always been a “relatively thankless, low-paid government job, which has gotten increasingly complex over the past 20 years,” he said. “As we’ve incorporated more technology into polling, they’ve become IT managers in the public spotlight, facing public threats… New responsibilities in how they communicate about their work are a key part of their job as wasn’t the case before 2020 or 2016.”

These factors, alongside safety concerns, translate to a high turnover, Adler continued, citing a November 2023 Reed College survey of approximately 1,000 local election officials. In it, “31% of those surveyed said they knew other “local election officials who left their jobs because of personal safety issues and threats. 11% surveyed had considered leaving because of safety concerns, and over a third of them will be eligible for retirement before 2026.”

This constitutes a dangerous cycle of misinformation, Adler explained: “Election officials face threats, they may be more inclined to leave their jobs that results in less institutional knowledge on how to run an election, which might result in more mistakes, which may in turn undermine voter confidence, which brings

more threats … Delays or errors in processing ballots creates a hunger for information which misinformation peddlers are all too eager to fill.”

Artificial intelligence “deepfakes” An increasing amount of this misinformation takes the form of AI-generated “deepfake” images and audio, said Sam Gregory, executive director of Witness.org.

This process has gotten particularly easier over the last year, as a wide range of technology has emerged whereby anyone can generate images from a text prompt, or mimic voices from audio samples, “to target and push people out of the public sphere. In conversations I’ve had with people working in electoral processes, this is something they’ve seen and worry about.”

In electoral contexts, patterns of deceptive image and audio use are already on the rise; he mentioned recent examples of an audio deepfake of Slovakian liberal politician Michal Šimečka and journalist Monika Tódová apparently discussing how to rig the upcoming elections; another audio deepfake targeting UK Labour leader Keir Starmer; and another audio deepfake of Chicago mayoral candidate Paul Vallas.

Another form of misinformation involves “cases when someone claims something is a deepfake when it’s actually real,” explained Gregory. Witness.org “receives many cases of deep fakes, and a lot of them are people basically relying on others’ absence of knowledge to deny a piece of audio on the basis that it has been faked.”

“Our information environment, by design, discourages engagement and conversation” across opposing political sides, he added. To combat electoral threats like these, we should “start from a baseline of what’s possible, of how misinformation is spread, so we know where to look for and stop it.” (Selen Ozturk/Ethnic Media Services)

Medi-Cal transforming public health...

PAGE A1 September, about 1.7 million were up for renewal.

About 20% to 21% of these people are disenrolled each month, she continued — much lower than many other states like Texas, which saw a 73% disenrollment rate by the end of August.

Hispanic individuals, making up the highest percentage of Medi-Cal enrollees, also make up the highest percentage — 53% — of those disenrolled. However, Huang said, many of these disenrollments may owe to families who “no longer need this coverage,” having found employer insurance or surpassed income limits since the pandemic, when eligibility checks were paused.

Those in the 21 counties transitioning to new managed care plans come January 1, 2024 will experience a change in the kind of health care they may be eligible for, said Michelle Retke, DHCS Chief of Managed Care Operations.

For many of these counties, managed care — which uses health insurance plans, like Kaiser or Anthem, to provide primary care doctors picked from a network of local health centers — is transitioning to a single-plan model where previously multiple plans were offered, Retke explained. For other affected counties, different plans will replace those currently there.

She emphasized that the main takeaway for Medi-Cal members in these counties, listed here, is “Pay attention to your mail; in October, November and December, you’ll get a notice that your plan is changing, and an enrollment choice packet that you can fill out on paper or online.”

As this redetermination and transition happens, Medi-Cal is also expanding to all undocumented immigrants come January 1; currently, those under 26 and over 49 are eligible.

Explaining the importance of this expansion to California’s

hardest-to-reach residents, Dr. Sergio Aguilar-Gaxiola said “this is a tremendous need. Meeting it requires more than goodwill and wanting to do the right thing. In order to reach these populations, building trust is front and center.”

Many undocumented Californians are (or are related to) farmworkers, a population which Aguilar-Gaxiola — Professor of Internal Medicine at UC Davis and Director of its Center for Reducing Health Disparities — has worked with for decades. There are approximately 600,000 to 700,000 farmworkers in California, he said, with 900,000 dependents — a total of 1.5 million, “the vast majority of which are Mexican or Central American.”

In the 1990s, in Fresno County, “we did a study of those with Mexican origin, including farmworkers, which continues to be the most comprehensive mental health population-based survey today,” he said. “Among those who needed mental health services” — say, due to depression, anxiety or substance abuse — “one out of three of those U.S.-born were using them, one out of six (documented) immigrants were, and less than one in 10 of undocumented workers were. Almost half of them didn’t know where to go, or couldn’t go to clinic hours due to work. I believe that during the pandemic, this has gotten worse.”

The study illustrates a major challenge to Medi-Cal expansion, he continued: “Rather than ‘hard to reach’ populations, I prefer to think in terms of ‘hardly reached,’ because there isn’t enough engagement … You’re going to build this new health care like the Field of Dreams, but the question is: Will they come? They won’t take advantage of these services unless you know how to communicate them.”

Juan Avila, Chief Operating Officer of Bakersfield-based Garden Pathways, shared his

experience of communicating health care newly offered under Medi-Cal to another hardly reached population: formerly incarcerated and “justice-involved youth and adults”; in serving about 400 to 500 a year through his nonprofit, he learned quickly that “if those we work with want to join the workforce again, they have to be healthy, and providing that care — preventative, mental health, dental, substance abuse — requires trust.”

Since 2017, Avila said he and his colleagues have built this trust by “going inside the detention centers, the county jail, to enroll individuals in MediCal before they’re released back into their communities, as many reentry people won’t have the same address and so won’t get mail notices. This is the strength of community work, reaching them where they are — whether in the institutions or on the streets as peacekeepers — and building trust to get them the care they need, because they wouldn’t otherwise come to the government to seek it out.”

This care, too, is expanding: come January 1, Medi-Cal will include new, community-based health services like reentryrelated tattoo removal, housing aid “for those at risk of becoming homeless,” community violence intervention, aftercare for violence victims, and “intensive care management for higherrisk populations,” e.g. substance abuse and home health care, he explained.

In expanding to include these services, Avila said Medi-Cal is expanding the possibilities of health care itself: “California is understanding now that health involves services that haven’t traditionally been part of the old model of ‘go to the doctor, get your medicine, go home.’

Health is quality of life, and good healthcare treats barriers to it at the source.” (Selen Ozturk/Ethnic Media Services)

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Marcos opens PH’s 1st cancer hospital

by CATHERINE S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday, November 24 urged the public to avail of the services and programs for cancer care, prevention and treatment as he inaugurated the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH), the country's first-ever facility dedicated to cancer care.

In his speech during the launch of the hospital in Taguig City, the president noted that cancer remains one of the most dreaded illnesses in the Philippines.

"With facilities such as this, we will allow the main weapon that we have in combating cancer — detection, giving patients the best chance in fighting this disease," Marcos said.

"We therefore encourage all Filipinos to get regular checkups now that we have the facilities by going to the community health centers," he added.

The HCCH is a premier health care institution that offers a wide and comprehensive range of cancer-patient services from screening, diagnosis and treatment to post-cancer care.

Also, cancer care services include radiation oncology, surgery, chemotherapy, and

palliative care.

"The opening of the HCCH will go a long way in improving access to quality cancer care for many Filipinos. Moreover, this endeavor highlights our strong partnership with the private sector in strengthening our health care system, which is aligned with the Philippine Health Facility Development Plan and the Integrated Cancer Program," Marcos said.

"All of these [are] geared towards our goal of universal healthcare. With the help of the HCCH, we can revolutionize the cancer care service industry in the Philippines through modern and state-of-the-art equipment, coupled with leading medical professionals and oncologists," he added.

Moreover, the president said that the facility will "positively reflect on the country's growing potential as a leading health care destination in Asia."

He encouraged public and private stakeholders to support the Philippine Health Facility Development Plan and invest in building more health facilities similar to the HCCH. "Rest assured that the government remains committed to nurturing an environment that

upholds the total wellbeing of our people, of course, with the continued support of our private partners and investors in health care," Marcos said.

Apart from the HCCH, Marcos said the country has 25 specialty centers and cancer care in select hospitals run by the Department of Health nationwide.

He said the PhilHealth Konsulta Primary Care Team is also available to provide free diagnostic examinations and laboratory tests.

Marcos said that the government has also established the Cancer Assistance Fund, which will pay for the cost of cancer diagnostics and laboratories not covered by PhilHealth, considering the "great financial burdens to cancer treatments."

"Nothing else matters if you are sick. Nothing else matters if you are dying. And that is why I am so pleased. I am so happy to be here today to see this as we progress in our health care system for the Philippines. We have learned many difficult, tragic lessons from Covid and I'm glad to see that we are applying those lessons learned now to the health care of our people," Marcos said. 

TEST RUN. The Metro Rail Transit 7 conducts a test run along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City on Thursday, Nov. 23. The 22-kilometer rail line from Quezon City to San Jose del Monte, Bulacan province is already 63.28 percent complete and expected to reduce travel time to around 35 minutes from end-to-end.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-28, 2023 A5

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FEATURES

OPINION

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Providing for a growing population FROM 2020 when the pandemic lockdowns were imposed until the end of this year, the Philippine population is expected to grow by an estimated six million. This will bring the total by yearend to 115 million from the 109 million recorded in the 2020 census, the Commission on Population and Development or CPD announced at the start of this week.

Changing lifestyles and attitudes toward family size and reproductive health are seen to have contributed to a slowdown in the country’s population growth. The CPD sees the annual growth rate now stable at 1.6 percent, with women giving birth to an average of two children. With the slower population growth rate, the working age group of 15 to 64 has become dominant, while the number of young dependents has gone down, the CPD said.

Still, the Philippines remains the 13th most populous country in the world, and the seventh in the Asia-Pacific, according to the CPD. Population growth always poses challenges to limited resources, especially if economic growth fails to keep up, which has long been the case in this country. This can be gleaned from various indicators including the poverty rate, which has hardly gone down, and which in fact

“significantly” increased between 2018 and 2021, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

The PSA also reported that as of 2021, fisherfolk, farmers, children and people living in rural areas remained the poorest sectors. The government struggles to provide adequate basic services to the people, from education to health care, shelter and modern sanitation. Malnutrition and undernutrition continue to stunt the physical and mental development of people in low-income communities.

Apart from limited resources to provide the basic needs of much of the population, the country also cannot generate enough decent jobs. This is evident in the continuing exodus of Filipinos for jobs overseas, even in conflict zones and in countries notorious for maltreatment of migrant precious resource. With the population growth workers. The people constitute a nation’s most rate stabilizing, the government should be able

Flea Market Of Ideas

Zero-sum game for the Marcoses and Dutertes?

Editorial

JOEL RUIZ BUTUYAN AND so it has come to pass.

On Nov. 22, 2021, two years ago today, I wrote a piece entitled “The prodigal daughter” where I foretold the fate that has now befallen Vice President Sara Duterte. I made the prediction at that time when, notwithstanding her clear lead in the surveys, Duterte agreed to give way to Ferdi-

nand Marcos Jr., and run as the latter’s vice president in the 2022 elections. I said then: “Sara will realize that as a vice president who may end up not deeply allied with the president, she would be inconsequential … By choosing to run as vice president, she has taken herself out of the picture, out of the game, and she has rendered herself unimportant.”

After benefitting from the immense voters appeal of the Duterte name, and getting itself installed as this country’s

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte

new ruling family, the Marcos clan has started to get VP Sara out of the picture, out of the game, and render her inconsequential. VP Sara has been denied access to the public treasury because she has been stripped of confidential funds. Her allies in the House of Representatives have been removed from key positions. Threats of impeachment against her in the lower House have rendered her on the defensive, and have diminished her stature and influence among local leaders, voters,

and potential financial backers. More recently, lawmakers are now coming out in the open urging the Marcos administration to fully cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in its investigation on the crimes against humanity committed by the Duterte patriarch.

President Marcos and House Speaker Martin Romualdez have both denied that there’s any impeachment move against VP Sara. But the denial is nothing but laway (saliva). Actions do the real talking. What are more telling are the numerous moves that have been taken against VP Sara that are meant to cut her down to size.

VP Sara and her father have both declared that the former has no ambitions of running for president in 2028. On the other hand, Speaker Romualdez has dismissed as mere rumors reports that he will gun for the nation’s top post in 2028. As we say in the vernacular, “Lokohin ninyo Lelong ninyo! (Fool your own grandfathers!)” In the twisted world of Philippine politics, a denial to run is the surest confirmation that one will gun for the presidency in the next elections.

From the Duterte camp, VP Sara will no doubt run as a presidential candidate in 2028. From the Marcos camp, Speaker Romualdez appears to be moving heaven and earth to Inquirer.net photo become the candidate of the

ManilaTimes.net photo

to do a better job of providing the basic needs of the people. (Philstar.com)

Marcos camp in 2028. Romualdez may just be a strawman aspirant and a more viable presidential contender may end up being the Marcos clan’s nominee eventually. But for sure, the Marcoses will put up and throw their full weight behind a candidate of their choice, and from all indications, it will not be VP Sara.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of both sides?

VP Sara will get support from China because the latter will want the Philippines to go back to treating itself as a province of China. The failures of the Marcos administration (on its election promises, on the nondistribution of Marcos gold, and the economic hardship felt by everyone) will spell advantage for the Duterte camp. Voters who still yearn for a strongman leader—and who view Mr. Marcos as a letdown—will go for VP Sara. Military and police personnel, who were pampered by the Duterte administration at the absurd expense of compromising our country’s financial health, will be expected to support VP Sara.

The Marcos camp candidate will draw support from the United States and western countries because a Philippines that stands up to China will serve their political and economic interests. Public funds and the entire government machinery will be used to the hilt in support of the Mar-

cos candidate. Leftist groups will support the Marcos nominee because the return of the Dutertes will hugely intensify killings in their ranks. Handing Rodrigo Duterte over to the ICC will be to the huge advantage of the Marcos candidate because it will gag the loudest and most effective mouth in the Duterte camp, and it will strip VP Sara of borrowed charisma.

What about the opposition?

If no viable third-party contender stands up, an intact opposition can deliver the swing vote for either side. Given the opposition’s frame of mind, it will come down to a choice of the lesser evil.

It is gearing up to be zero-sum game between the Marcoses and the Dutertes. If the level and intensity of the current skirmishes continue, the Marcoses will need to totally insure that there will be no possibility for the Dutertes to return to power. If the Marcoses fail, they will experience the kind of vengeance that the Edsa People Power Revolution failed to exact from them. (Inquirer.net) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** Comments to fleamarketofideas@ gmail.com

Struggling for a better future

Glimpses

JOSE A. MONTELIBANO IT is simply human, and Filipinos are human, too, to look ahead and imagine our families beyond today. I think it is embedded in our DNA. It might be as primal as the instinct to survive, with survival to include the family we build and will leave behind to build theirs.

I think surviving precedes resilience, or is the reason why we turn out to be resilient. The Creator must have placed such great importance to life that all creation is energy as well, and energy is never destroyed.

There seems to be a philosophical dimension to life and it is most obvious among humans. We are all here, humans and everything else, not having created ourselves but caught in a process where we naturally recreate and extend life. More intricate than that is how we can enhance and transform ourselves.

What a magnificent potential that

is almost self-driven.

It is that time of the year when I tend to get more reflective, when I want to step up from the mundane concerns that tend to dominate our attention. Yet, most mean little to us, just details that divert our focus to that which means more. I can watch the Israel-Hamas drama all day, or the Biden-Trump dynamics, and yes, they are attention-grabbing.

I can go closer to home and witness how a UNITEAM is fracturing before my very eyes, even without knowing the more juicy rumors from people allegedly in the know. I see grand hypocrisy played out in tri-media, how this public official can say this but do the opposite behind the scene. And all this time, those involved in the zarzuela think we are all so dense and blind that we cannot understand what they are actually doing.

Politics are very critical to the lives of Filipinos who are dependent on government handouts or support. I understand that, especially when half of Filipinos consider themselves

poor and waiting for government assistance. They have little options. They have to dance to the music of local and national politicians and bureaucrats who are distributing the goodies. But what the needy forget to realize is that they are pawns or puppets because they have little capacity to take care of themselves. For their lack of productive capacity, they surrender their dignity.

The reality, though, is that change will not come fast. In fact, it may not come at all. Unless an external force, whether it is a national calamity or a revolution, smashes the status quo. Meanwhile, life goes on but it does not go forward. If there is no meaningful and sustainable improvement, there is no forward.

It is what is called as running in place. Too bad because running in place is the slower equivalent of digging a hole.

But life does go on, and not only that, life goes on with an urge to find a better place. It is futuristic, it may even be intuitive, but we look for a lighter life, a brighter tomorrow, and we see

our children and grandchildren in it. For that piece of a dream, we struggle to go through our challenges today, even if we know we did not do very well yesterday.

And this is another reason why I am writing this article today, to share my thoughts on the virtue that is born and developed in us. Many call it resilience. The question is whether we can train ourselves to be resilient, or to simply forget about it if it is a natural consequence of the process we call daily living.

Resilience cannot come to be without a struggle. In fact, not just a struggle but possibly much more. Struggles are not only physical, or economic, they can be anything and everything. The make-up of a human being is so intricate that he or she is more than the sum of his or her parts.

We are physical, we have feelings, we have thoughts, and we have decisions. We can ride the tide or we can resist the current. We can be what we want to be in our inner selves. Sometimes, we can even be what we want to be on

the outside.

Training people to be resilient is to be a bit sadistic. That will mean deliberately moving them through challenges of our many dimensions, and making them come out not only alive but also not traumatized. Even without intentional programs to grow resiliency in people and just daily living, people can get in depression, contract mental illness, and some commit suicide.

What more if they are trained to go through more severe situations in life.

Yet, people do turn out resilient. The fact that humanity is still here after all it has gone through means there is resiliency even without deliberate training.

What humanity did go through is childhood and parenthood in the thick of daily living. The training for survival and resiliency has always been instinctive and intuitive. With almost 8 bilion people on the planet today, and most of them are poor and marginalized, the instinctive and intuitive have done quite well in sustaining life.

The truth is, it is not the resiliency of man that I am worried about. Our growing population already proves that.

Rather, it is our intelligence that worries me, or, to be more succinct, it is our inability to overcome our stupidity that is truly alarming. For one reason or the other, we cannot seem to get things right. There are enough models, by the way, but not enough learning.

Those who get ahead of others, few though they may be, cannot transcend the perks of power and the temptation of wealth.

Unfortunately, they are in control despite their minuscule numbers.

For only one reason, it seems.

That the vast majority choose to suffer like meek lambs for years, for centuries, for millennia. Which is why, with everything we have to take care of, I worry about our intelligence. (Inquirer.net) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

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

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-28, 2023 A7

Internet voting for OFWs to start in 2025

by WILLIAM B. DEPASUPIL ManilaTimes.net

WITH or without an implementing law, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will use the internet as an alternative mode of voting for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) starting in the 2025 elections.

"We will proceed with internet voting at all cost, law or no law," said Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia during a forum in Manila on Thursday, November 23.

Garcia said the move is meant to increase the voting turnout at less cost to the government.

As early as 2012, the Comelec had been asking Congress to pass a law that will allow overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to vote via the internet.

Under the Overseas Voting Act (Republic Act 9189), the poll body is authorized to explore internetbased technologies for overseas voting.

"We approved the policy direction and therefore we are to prepare the roadmap for electronic voting for overseas Filipinos," Garcia said.

The Comelec spent more than P400 million for overseas voting in the 2022 elections, but voter

turnout was a low 39 percent.

"Spending P411 million (for overseas voting) but resulting in a dismal 39 percent turnout is not value for money, so to speak.

Why are not so many overseas Filipinos voting personally or by mail? Maybe they need another mode," he said.

The 2022 overseas voting turnout was by far the highest since overseas voting was implemented.

At present, Filipinos overseas vote either by mail or personally cast ballots at the Philippine embassies or foreign posts where they are registered.

Last year, there were about 1.7 million registered migrant voters spread across 92 Philippine posts.

The largest concentrations of overseas voters are in the Middle East and Africa with 786,997 voters, followed by the AsiaPacific region with 450,282.

There are 306,445 Filipino voters in Latin American countries, and 153,491 in Europe.

Overseas Filipinos can only vote for president, vice president, 12 senators and one party-list group.

The overseas absentee voting starts 30 days before the start of regular elections but simultaneously closes along with

the local voting.

Comelec spokesman John Rex Laudiangco said the authority of the commission to tap other modes of voting was based on Section 16.11 of Republic Act (RA) 9189, and Sections 23 and 28 of RA 10580.

Under these laws, Congress has authorized Comelec to pursue alternative voting modes, Laudiangco said.

"With the additional authority granted to the commission under Republic Act 10590 vis-a-vis its stronger implementing authority, it can be assumed that the Congress has yielded to the expertise and knowledge of the Commission in understanding the peculiarities attendant to the overseas voting process, to the extent that Congress no longer required prior approval in the form of legislation in order for the Commission to promulgate rules and regularities and consequently, implement other means of overseas voting that are more reliable, secure and efficient," said Laudiangco.

He also said overseas internet voting is safe because it requires only a small amount of data, similar to that of text messages. 

Senate President Juan Miguel ‘Migz’ Zubiri and House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez join parliamentarians at the opening of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum held at the Philippine International Convention Center.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan

Countries back PH quest for UN Security Council post

by BERNADETTE TAMAYO ManilaTimes.net

SENATE President Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri said 15 out of 27 members of the AsiaPacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) support the Philippines' candidature as nonpermanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said in September that the Philippines is campaigning hard to win a nonpermanent seat at the UNSC for the term 2027 to 2028 so that the country will "have a voice" in the body.

The Philippines should be elected to the UNSC by two thirds of the members of the UN General Assembly.

"Without naming names, out of 27 member countries of APPF, we have the support of 15," Zubiri said on Thursday, November 23 at the sidelines of the 31st APPF being hosted by the Philippines

from November 23 to 26.

"But, we will not mention [the countries supporting the Philippines]. We don't want to telegraph our punches. We have a competitor to the same position," he said in Filipino and English.

"We are approaching all the countries, as many as we can and we will continue to next year.

So, we started our campaign," Manalo earlier said.

Asked how important it is for the Philippines to be represented at the UNSC, he said, "The Security Council is a principal organ of the UN and the council is responsible for the maintenance of international peace and security."

"The Security Council considers all major problems of the world. So, if we are on the council, we will have a voice in these global issues," Manalo said.

He added that the country has other concerns such as climate

change and migration.

"We were on the council 20 years ago. I was also involved in the campaign [then]. I think it's time that the Philippines can again be on the world stage," the official said.

"Our aim is to try and manage our disputes with China. And we have made that very clear.

Our aim is to manage disputes peacefully, and through the rule of law and international law," Manalo said.

In a speech delivered on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the 78th session of the UNGA, Manalo on Sunday asked the UN member-states to back Philippines' bid for a nonpermanent seat to the UNSC. "The Philippine candidature for a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council for the term 2027 to 2028 manifests our strong desire to offer the best of the Philippine diplomatic tradition," he said. 

to the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court RTC) Branch 206 dated Nov. 17, 2023.

"We no longer desire to live our lives with the knowledge that we allowed ourselves to become pawns or instruments of injustice. We wish to live a life of dignity, integrity, and responsibility moving forward," they stated.

The witnesses include Germa Agojo, Tomas Doniña, Jaime Patcho, Wu Tuan Yuan also known as Peter Co), Engelberto Durano, Jerry Pepino, and Hans Anton Tan. They are all currently serving sentences at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) The Muntinlupa RTC Branch

206 granted De Lima to post bail for her remaining drug case on November 13.

De Lima has been detained at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City since 2017 after being implicated in the illegal drug trade at the New Bilibid Prison while she was justice secretary.

While under detention, several witnesses had recanted their allegations against the former senator.

These witnesses said they had been coerced.

The former senator won her first two cases in 2021 and in early 2023, respectively. 

7 witnesses against De Lima to recant testimonies

by FRANCO JOSE C. BAROÑA ManilaTimes.net

MANILA — Seven persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who stood as witnesses in the pending drug case against former senator Leila de Lima have signified their intention to retract their testimonies.

"At this point, we would like to state that our participation as witnesses in the drug cases against former DoJ (Department of Justice) Secretary De Lima was vitiated by undue compulsion and influence, and thus, any judicial statement made by us, is void of lack of consent," the witnesses said in a signed letter addressed

PH, US begin joint patrols

by CATHERINE S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net

THE Philippines and the United States began joint maritime and air patrols in the West Philippine Sea on Tuesday, November 21 as the longtime allies stepped up cooperation in the face of Beijing's aggressive moves in the South China Sea. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the three-day joint activity aims to enhance the interoperability of both military forces in the conduct of maritime and air patrols.

"This significant initiative is a testament to our commitment to bolster the interoperability of our military forces in conducting maritime and air patrols. Through collaborative efforts, we aim to enhance regional security and foster a seamless partnership with the United States in safeguarding

our shared interests," he added.

Marcos said the joint patrols are part of a series of events agreed upon by the Mutual Defense BoardSecurity Engagement Board (MDBSEB) of the Philippines and the U.S. The MDB-SEB is a framework for security and cooperation, providing an opportunity for the Philippines and the U.S. to exchange views on security concerns and plan the range of military activities they will conduct the following year, including the Balikatan exercises which are held annually.

"I am confident that this collaboration will contribute to a more secure and stable environment for our people," the president said.

"The joint maritime and air patrols are scheduled to continue until November 23, 2023," he added.

Efforts to have joint maritime

patrols with the U.S. stemmed from the various incidents between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea in the past years.

In October, the Philippines conducted a resupply mission, which China attempted to interrupt, resulting in a collision with a civilian supply boat and a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel.

Five China Coast Guard shops and eight Chinese Maritime Militia vessels actively participated in harassing the Filipino vessels during the October resupply mission, the PCG said.

Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel "Babe" Romualdez earlier said the joint patrols that were set for this year were not directed at any country.

Romualdez said Manila has always had an agreement with the U.S. for maritime patrols, but it was "never really implemented." 

OPEN GOVERNANCE. Representatives of government and non-government sectors sign on the pledge wall as they commit to uphold the open government partnership values of transparency, accountability, citizen engagement, and strengthening governance through technology during the “OGPinas” national advocacy campaign in Davao City on Friday, Nov. 24. The stakeholders also committed to engage different branches and levels of government, civil society, the business community, the youth, and the general citizenry to promote access to information, fight corruption, deepen public participation, and develop platforms to deliver better services.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

DOT renews call for tourists to visit Mindanao MANILA — The Department of Tourism (DOT) renewed its call for local and foreign travelers to visit Mindanao and thanked the Senate for approving its P3.339-billion budget for 2024.

During an event promoting halal food in Mindanao, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco invited tourists to “explore this vibrant island” as she hoped they would “reconsider their perception of Mindanao.”

“Other initiatives that have manifested the commitment of the Marcos administration to fully reopen Mindanao to tourism is the milestone agreement that we signed with the (Department of National Defense and Philippine National Police) to ensure that the reopening of Mindanao to tourism is firmly based on a data-based approach in terms of the very stable peace and order situation of the Mindanao regions,” she said at a hotel in Makati City on Nov. 21.

Ambassadors and representatives from Brunei, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Russia, Pakistan, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Jordan, Qatar, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan and the United States attended the event.

Among the dishes served to them were kinilaw or raw seafood mixed with vinegar and citrus, pisawawan a sapi or roasted bone

marrow in beef broth from Lanao, piyanggang manuk or grilled chicken with burnt coconut sauce from Sulu, dinilutan a seda or grilled swordfish from Maguindanao and piyareng a udang or prawns mixed with coconut meat sauté and palapa scallion relish from Lanao.

Meanwhile, Frasco thanked the Senate for approving the DOT’s P3.339-billion budget for 2024.

Their 2024 budget is lower than

this year’s budget of P3.7 billion but higher than the P2.99 billion initially recommended under the 2024 National Expenditure Program, according to DOT’s earlier statements.

During budget deliberations that lasted until the wee hours of Nov. 21, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri declared the DOT’s budget should be increased for advertisements. (Ghio Ong/ Philstar.com)

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Crewman takes his chances for provisional waiver: An inspiring success story on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday

TONY entered the U.S. as a crewman in 2003.

While visiting his mother, his family convinced him to jump ship and overstay, so he remained in the U.S. and met his future wife, Georgia.

However, because he was a crewman, he could not apply for his green card in the U.S. Provisional Waivers (PW) became available in 2016. This would forgive Tony for having

overstayed. However, his visa must be approved and issued at the U.S. Embassy in Manila.

Tony’s provisional waiver was immediately approved in 2017 after leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel proved to the USCIS that Tony’s wife and his mother, both U.S. citizens, would suffer extreme hardship if Tony PAGE B2

Boy Abunda invited but disqualified to judge Miss Universe 2023

By Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com

VETERAN television host Boy Abunda revealed that he was invited to be a judge at the recently concluded Miss Universe 2023 pageant but was disqualified from further selection.

Boy began the November 21 episode of his GMA show “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” by addressing an article released earlier this month about Miss Universe inviting him to judge in El Salvador.

“Totoo po ‘yun, I confirm that. Ako’y inimbitahan but I was also disqualified from judging this year’s Miss Universe dahil I did an interview with one of the candidates,” Boy said.

The host was referring to his interview with the Philippines’ Michelle Dee prior to the beauty queen flying out for final pageant preparations.

Boy pointed out that such an incident prevents him from being a judge, which he accepted and quipped he would’ve voted for Michelle “whatever happened.”

“Nai-imagine ko because everybody is so invested about beauty pageants, I can imagine how difficult it is to judge,” Boy added.

He praised Michelle for making it to the Top 10, though pointed out some people “have a lot of questions,” likely because many believed Michelle

CREWMEN AND PROVISIONAL WAIVERS WILL BE THE TOPIC OF DISCUSSION ON A BRAND-NEW SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! Tony (left) entered the U.S. as a crewman in 2003 and overstayed. As a result, he could not adjust status, even through marriage to his U.S. citizen spouse. In 2016, Provisional Waivers became available. This would “forgive” Tony for having overstayed, but he had to apply for his visa at the U.S. Embassy in Manila. However, the embassy was taking a hard stance on crewmen with provisional waivers and charging them with fraud. In 2022, Tony saw an episode on Citizen Pinoy where Julie, another crewman, took the risk and flew back to the Philippines with her provisional waiver, and she successfully obtained her immigrant visa. Upon seeing that episode, Tony informed leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) that he also wanted to take his chances. Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, November 26 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

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Matteo looks back on his decade-long relationship with Sarah

By Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net

TV host Boy Abunda

ABS-CBN photo

deserved a higher finish given her strong runway performances and topping the fan vote.

Boy said he would sit down with Michelle to discuss her Miss Universe 2023 journey when she returns to the Philippines.

Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua was crowned PAGE B3

THE Matteo Guidicelli and Sarah Geronimo tandem is one of the relationships that everyone has watched and cheered for given the controversies they have faced over the years.

Having spent 10 years of being together, with three years as a married couple, Guidicelli sat down on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda on Thursday, Nov. 23, to talk about the highlights and PAGE B3 Matteo Guidicelli and Sarah Geronimo

Inquirer.net photo

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(L-R) MoTHER Board Secretary Cres Go, Elizabeth San Diego (emcee), Lagrimas Pardilla, Lucy Mejia, Ancil “Jun” Suaze, Ethelina Provido (co-emcee), Gloria Resurreccion, Teresita Nones, Fe Destura, Estrellita Solas, Leonisa Labang, Myndy Pascual, Carolyn Elston and Perla Santos. Joined via Zoom were Mayble Boynton from Washington State; Francisca Naris from Pangasinan and Juanita Pableo from San Carlos City, Philippines.

Tony (left) was finally able to get his immigrant visa in October 2023, 20 years after he jumped ship as a crewman in 2003.

Crewman takes his chances for...

PAGE B1 would not be admitted back to the U.S. Tony already had a scheduled interview at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, but since the Embassy was taking a hard stance on crewmen with provisional waivers and charging them with fraud, Atty. Gurfinkel decided to postpone Tony’s trip to the

Philippines.

In 2022, Tony saw an episode of Citizen Pinoy where Julie, another crewman, took the risk and flew back to the Philippines with her provisional waiver. Julie was able to obtain her immigrant visa.

Inspired by that success story, Tony told Atty. Gurfinkel that he was willing to take his chances

and apply for his visa in Manila.

Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, November 26 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.

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National Family Caregivers Month observed in LA’s Historic Filipinotown

FAMILY caregivers took the center stage at the observance of the National Family Caregivers Month held on November 20 at the Larry Itliong Village in Historic Filipinotown.

Spearheaded by the Tender Loving Care Family Caregiver (TLCFC) Support Group, a program of the International MoTHER Movement (IMM), the three-event celebration coincided with the group’s pre-Christmas party.

Honored were the unpaid caregivers, who are unselfishly providing unconditional love, compassion and dedicated service in caring for their loved ones, to the point of neglecting their own health. Oftentimes, they tend to become sicker due to the demands of family caregiving.

Consul General Edgar Badajos sent his video message quoted below to extend greetings and appreciation to all family caregivers. The video was played prior to the distribution of recognition certificates, given to those present as well those who could not attend the in-person fanfare, particularly those from the Washington state and the Philippines who joined virtually via Zoom. “….Family caregivers play a critical role in our society. They take care of different types of wards – from the young to the elderly, to the sick and infirm, and to those who simply need a companion to be able to continue doing some of the most basic tasks of daily living. In so doing, family caregivers ease the worries of concerned families for the health and wealth-being of their most vulnerable loved ones. Caregiving is not an easy task. There is plenty of anecdotal evidence that this line of work is physically draining, time-consuming and, at times, emotionally and psychologically stressful.

This is why it is important for caregivers to also take care of themselves. Whenever you can, if you are a caregiver, take time out to engage in activities that bring you joy, and to not hesitate to seek support when needed.

I commend the International MoTHER Movement for its Tender Loving Care Family Caregiver, or TLC, Support Group for providing a space for family caregivers to take a breather, and access to a network of understanding and emphatic individuals who share experiences similar to theirs. I liken The TLC Support Group to an oasis, an oasis of hope and a place for

rejuvenation for every individual working as a family caregiver.

This November, let us show to all the family caregivers in our midst that although they are often working silently and behind the scenes, their efforts are treasured, appreciated, and valued!”

The highlight of the gathering was the launching of an advocacy signature campaign proposing the possibility for individuals with chronic illnesses to petition a relative from their country of origin to come to the U.S. and help care for a sick loved one in the U.S. This would be based on the consideration of language, religion, family practices, tradition, culture, including food choices and manner of cooking, personal familiarity and responsiveness, among other customary practices that would alleviate their condition.

The program opened with the singing of national anthems: Star Spangled Banner

by Teresita Nones and Lupang Hinirang by Priscilla Leard; Invocation by Elizabeth San Diego; Opening & Welcome Address by Perla Santos.

A poem titled “Sa mga Family Caregivers: Pagdakila at Parangal” written by Eusebio “Bing San Diego was read. Another highlight of the event was a “putong” or crowning ceremony for birth-month celebrants Cres Go and Cecilia Berango. Closing remarks was by Dr. Art Flores. The annual event is conducted by the TLC Family Caregiver Support, a program of the International MoTHER Movement.

The TLCFC Support group is composed of unpaid caregiver kababayans who are taking care of their loved ones, as a familial obligation, in keeping with our culture. They take part in the all free weekly activities conducted virtually by the IMM, addressing awareness and education on various topics affecting their situation.

This includes: basic technology 101; health and nutrition education; awareness raising and prevention on various health topics, physical activity – dancing, tai chi, Zumba and the nobetting Bingo Ayuda, among others. The goal is to alleviate the feeling of loneliness, depression, isolation, sedentariness, and others. The no cost Zoom activities are open to everyone as well. n

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Philippines’ Michelle Dee wins Best National Costume at Miss Universe 2023

ALMOST a week after the coronation night in El Salvador, the Philippines’ Michelle Dee was given the Best National Costume award at the 72nd Miss Universe.

In a report by ABS-CBN News, it said that Dee garnered the most votes on the Choicely app, Photo from Instagram/@ricoblanco100 where fans voted for their bet for the said special award.

Dee also won the Voice for Change and the Carnival Cruise Award at the said pageant.

The outfit bore a “solihiya” pattern while her

Rico Blanco

Rico continues winning streak with new single

AFTER receiving the Dangal Ng Musikang Pilipino at the 36th Awit Awards for his contribution to the Philippine music scene and re-releasing “You’ll Be Safe Here” on streaming platforms for the very first time, Filipino alternative rock icon Rico Blanco continues the momentum with the release of his new single, “Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato),” via Sony Music Entertainment.

On “Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato),” the songsmith displays a mastery of the ‘love song’ genre with simplicity and finesse, evoking the feeling of winning the lottery after several tries in life and love.

“The chorus hook came to me first, and I immediately felt it would be a really fun song to play live or at a party. I kept imagining everyone dancing and singing along. A fun party PAGE B4

Director Dominic Zapata (fifth from left in light blue) with the cast of historical action-drama “Pulang Araw” Epy Quizon, Angelu de Leon, David Licauco, Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, Alden Richards, Rochelle Pangilinan and Aidan Veneracion.

GMA photo

Barbie, David, Alden, Sanya to star in Japanese-era drama

By Kathleen a. llemit Philstar.com

GMA-7 is producing yet another historical drama with Barbie Forteza and David Licauco for 2024 after the successful 2022 hit “Maria Clara at Ibarra.”

The popular TV couple, also known as BarDa, will be joined

by Alden Richards and Sanya Lopez in the Japanese-era drama “Pulang Araw.”

The cast reveal was announced at the end of the “24 Oras” newscast.

Dubbed historical actiondrama series, “Pulang Araw” is a “poignant and emotionallycharged tale set against the intertwined lives of four childhood friends, Eduardo, Hiroshi and the half-sisters, Teresita and Adelina. As war ravages their homeland and Japanese forces occupy the country, their dreams, loyalties and friendships are tested.”

Barbie is reunited with Sanya in the upcoming show. They starred in the afternoon drama “The Half Sisters.” Sanya is also the sister of her real-life boyfriend, actor Jak Roberto.

Barbie and Sanya will play half-sisters Adelina and Teresita.

They both dream of becoming vaudeville stars and achieved stardom as the duo “Chinita and

Morena.” Their dreams were interrupted when the Japanese forces occupied the country during World War II. Alden and David are their childhood friends.

Alden is Adelina’s brother, Eduardo, on her mother side.

He is half-Filipino and halfAmerican who longs for the love of Teresita.

David will play Hiroshi Tanaka, the son of a Japanese immigrant. He grows up with the three but had to leave for Japan. When he comes back, he realizes his childhood friends have become vaudeville stars.

Rhian Ramos plays the special role of Fina, the mother of Adelina and Eduardo who died from a disease.

Other actors who were revealed to join the upcoming drama are Epy Quizon, Angelu de Leon, Rochelle Pangilinan, Mikoy Morales, Aidan Veneracion and Ashley Ortega.

“Masarap gumawa ng teleserye na alam mong ‘pag nagawa mo ito, maraming mai-inspire e. At gusto kong maramdaman ‘yung struggle noon ng mga Filipino, kung paano nila nalagpasan ‘yung WWII noon,” said Sanya.

GMA has not revealed the release date of “Pulang Araw” but said it will be aired next year. n

Matteo looks back on...

PAGE B1 learnings in his relationship with the singer-actress.

The actor mentioned the importance of respect and listening in marriage, but pointed out that having God as the center of his relationship with Geronimo has been the ultimate secret to their togetherness.

“Matteo, God and Sarah. Always put God in the middle. That is very important. When you have God in the middle, respect comes, collaboration comes, love comes,” said the actor.

Since Guidicelli is a Filipino-Italian, there could be a cultural difference between him and Geronimo, a pure Filipina. “Tahimik ba kayo mag-away, nagsisigawan ba kayo?” asked Abunda.

“All of the above. But you know what’s nice, every relationship has its own ups and downs. It’s a beautiful journey, arguing, quarreling, happy moments, sad moments.. But Sarah makes it a point that we pray together before going to bed. That’s something that’s natural in her…,” said Guidicelli.

Abunda then asked the actor-model if jealousy plays a part in their marriage, to which Guidicelli answered yes but with limitations.

“Seloso, pero hindi ko pinapakita,” he said, and proceeded to answer the question if his wife gets jealous, too. “Hindi naman siya selosa,” “I know my boundaries as a husband and I’d like to protect that.

Before we got married, we dated for a long time. I believe Sarah really protected our relationship. How? Being private and being silent from our industry.” Guidicelli said.

Guidicelli and Geronimo met in 2009 but only went public about their relationship in 2014. In February 2020, the couple tied the knot in a low-key but controversial wedding. n

Boy Abunda invited but...

PAGE B1 as Miss Universe 2023, the firstever title for her country, with Thailand’s Anntonia Porsild as the first runner-up.

Apart from winning the fan

vote, Michelle also won the Spirit of Carnival Award and was among the three Gold winners of the Voice For Change competition with her advocacy toward autism awareness. n

wings bore the colors of the Philippine flag, a mural of tourist destinations, and the current tourism slogan, “Love The Philippines.”

Michelle also wore a captain’s cap with the “solihiya” pattern, referencing the beauty queen’s role as an Air Force reservist.

Dee finished in the Top 10 in the pageant.

Sheynnis Palacios won Nicaragua’s first Miss Universe crown at last Sunday’s (Manila time) Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee at the finals held in El Salvador. (Kathleen A. Llemit/ Miss Universe 2023 national costume show Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Philstar.com) n

Paolo says Yen still his girlfriend

By Jan milo Severo Philstar.com

ACTOR Paolo Contis clarified that he and girlfriend Yen Santos are still together.

In Paolo’s recent guesting on “Fast Talk With Boy Abunda,” Boy asked Paolo: “Dahil ito’y napag-uusapan, tanong ng bayan — Kayo na ba ni Arra San Agustin, kayo pa ba ni Yen? Will you talk or will you dare?”

“Talk. Para matapos na,” Paolo answered.

“Yes. Kami pa ni Yen,” he added.

Paolo said that the viral video of him and Arra are just edited videos.

“And alam mo, ‘yung mga kumakalat sa ‘min ni Arra, it’s an edited video of a portion in ‘Eat Bulaga’,” he said.

romance rumors.

They also confirmed their relationship in “Fast Talk With Boy Abunda.”

“Si Yen Santos ba ang girlfriend mo na?” asked Boy. Paolo initially jested, “As a friend?” while laughing.

When Boy said, “Umayos ka,” and repeated his question, Paolo confirmed his relationship with Yen. “Yes,” he revelead. “Ang samin kasi, kung baga, what you see is what you get na naman e, ‘di ba? Hindi na namin pwedeng ipilit ‘yung tao to be happy for us, hindi na namin pwedeng ipilit ‘yung mga tao na paniwalaan Paolo Contis and Yen Santos in an Instagram post.

Photo from Instagram/@paolo_contis ‘yung gusto nilang paniwalaan.

Sana lang isipin nila na kung ano “It was maliciously edited. It’s side of it,” he added. a skit love triangle ni Arra, ako, at Paolo confirmed earlier this lang ‘yung nakikita nilang nakasaka si Candy played by Betong year that he and Yen are in a post, ‘yung lang ang truth na and they just keep on posting our relationship months after their alam nila.” n

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Bishop Matthew Elshoff celebrates ‘Simbang Gabi 2023’ MOST Reverend Matthew Elshoff, OFM, Cap., Auxiliary Bishop of Our Lady of the Angels Pastoral Region, will celebrate the “Simbang Gabi 2023” at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

“Simbang Gabi”, a special Advent Mass, is a

Filipino pre-Christmas tradition being celebrated with other multi-ethnic parishioners of the Church.

It is under the auspices of the Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.

A sumptuous reception follows after the Mass at the church hall.

Sarah cuts hair amid rumored split with Richard

By Jan Milo seveRo Philstar.com

ACTRESS Sarah Lahbati is now sporting short hair, alarming her fans about the breakup rumors with husband Richard Gutierrez.

In her Instagram account, Sarah posted a video showing her new hairdo.

“Embracing the stillness of time,” she captioned the post with a white heart emoji.

Celebrities commented on Sarah’s new hair.

“You are beautiful inside and out!” Pauleen Luna commented.

“Super gandaaaaaaaaaaaaa,” Ciara Sotto commented.

An Instagram user, however, commented that Sarah is in her “moving on era.”

Separation rumors between Richard and Sarah began when eagle-eyed fans noticed that the couple have not been posting about each other on social media like they always did, although Sarah has always been spotted in fashion events recently with Richard’s twin brother, Raymond.

At the recent ABS-CBN Ball, Philstar.com asked Richard why he was alone at the red carpet after attending the ball previously with Sarah. He said Sarah was unable to come because relatives visited from abroad and she had to attend to them.

Sarah Lahbati

Photo from Instagram/@sarahlahbati

Recently, Kapuso actress Kazel Kinouchi denied that she and Richard have a romantic relationship.

Kazel and Richard were photographed in a Halloween party with the actor’s sons Zion and Kai. Kazel, however, quickly denied that she’s involved in the rumored breakup of Richard with Sarah.

Richard and Sarah got married in 2020 and have two sons, Zion and Kai. n

Derek makes a showbiz comeback

by Ronnie CaRRasCo ManilaTimes.net

IT’S not at all “goodbye, showbiz!” for Derek Ramsay as the Filipino-British actor has an entry to this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival to watch out for — “(K)ampon.”

As the very title suggests, it apparently is a horror film.

If I’m not mistaken, this is the same project originally offered to Kris Aquino (during her healthier days, of course) opposite Derek. For some reason, the plan fizzled out.

It will be remembered that the onslaught of the global pandemic in 2020 had sidelined Derek.

It was by choice that he had ditched a couple of TV and film assignments with the gnawing fear that he might contract the dreaded virus (yet he was not spared anyway).

Derek’s decision to turn his back on showbiz has rubbed off on his wife Ellen Adarna whose last appearance was via a shortlived sitcom on TV. It is pretty understandable why the couple would rather sacrifice their showbiz career and do a lot of traveling: they got the means.

rich”?

No, Derek having lots and lots of it has nothing to do with his self-imposed retirement.

More than ever, Derek feels like working on his own terms, and at his own pace.

Can he not be his own boss?

Doesn’t he have the right to set his own rules?

Any curious movie buff, however, cannot help but ask what was it that made Derek stage a showbiz comeback? Is his forthcoming festival entry something he hasn’t done before?

Is it because of his leading lady Beauty Gonzales, his wife Ellen’s close friend — them being both Visayans?

Or does Derek feel it’s about time he got back on his toes, and there’s no better time than Christmas? Does it mean we’ll be seeing much of Derek in the coming holidays and beyond?

What about Ellen, isn’t she just as eager-beaver to make her screen presence felt all over again, at least before she plans to get pregnant in the Year of Derek Ramsay the Dragon?

Photo from Instagram/@ramsayderek07 With all the network Isn’t this what Derek’s collaborations going on these erstwhile buddy John Estrada days, Derek and Ellen may want once said of him: “He’s actually to take advantage of these. n

Rico continues winning streak with...

PAGE B3 song,” Blanco shared.

Recorded at the Balcony Studio with the legendary Angee Rozul, the upbeat pop-rock ditty shows a sonic maverick still in his prime.

The track also marks the first time that the OPM veteran jammed and recorded a track face-toface with fellow musicians since the pandemic, which includes accomplished and critically acclaimed producers/singer-songwriters Zild Benitez on bass and Tim Marquez on drums.

“It felt like we’re just playing around and having fun in the studio. There’s nothing like recording together in a room,” the multiawarded artist explained.

“Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato)” serves as

EMPLOYMENT

No baby plans yet for Yeng

By Jan Milo seveRo Philstar.com

SINGER Yeng Constantino and husband Victor “Yan” Asuncion revealed that they have no plans yet to have a baby.

Victor said he wants Yeng to enjoy her life first because she began working at an early age. The couple were guests on broadcast journalist Karen Davila’s YouTube vlog.

“Wala pa po right now. When we got married, sinabi namin na after two years mag-baby na kami. Pero ngayon eight years na kami pero wala pa rin,” Victor said.

“For Yeng, nakikita ko na ‘Ahh ngayon lang siya nagiging bata.’

She’s been working since ‘yung early age niya. Parang ngayon, I can finally provide for her na. Pwede kang maglaro-laro ngayon,” he added.

Yeng revealed that she knew Victor was the right one for her

Yeng Constantino Photo from Instagram/@yeng

on their first date.

“First date pa lang. Nu’ng nagsasalita siya, mukha akong calm pero sa loob ko, ‘yung kaba ko grabe. Sabi ko, ‘Bakit ganon?

Kasama naman sa worship team ‘to pero wala naman akong nararamdaman.’ Pero nu’ng first

Dolly de Leon will help you make it in Hollywood

By MJ MaRfoRi Philstar.com

“HINDI tayo madamot (We’re not selfish),” quipped our very own BAFTA and Golden Globe nominee Dolly de Leon as we bantered with her at the semi-intimate “What’s New in Dollywood?” event at Las Casas in Quezon City last Tuesday, November 21.

It was spearheaded by Dolly’s local handlers, CreaZion studios.

She has an agent in Hollywood but she wants her local career in the country to be handled by her people. It’s such a genuinely kind move.

Now going back to what she said about not being selfish, Dolly was pertaining about her talents, what she knows and how she got successful in Hollywood.

Today, Dolly will be going back to her alma mater where she learned how to act and teach aspiring actors on how to land a role. The title of her workshop is “Auditioning for a Role and Landing It.” As an alumna of the pioneering batch for the Certificate in Theatre Arts program at the University of the Philippines, Dolly pays homage to her theater training at the Department of Speech Communication and Theatre

The local career of Dolly is being managed by CreaZion Studios.

Arts by sharing her audition techniques. This is the trend DUP Studio seeks to sustain — welcoming back the talents it has honed over the past four decades to inspire a new breed of artists and enthusiasts.

Dolly was even so cute when she said, “Who knows you may learn something from me, I hope!” Well that is for sure but all the aspiring actors had to do was sign up online at the Dulaang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (UP).

With her three films and one series with Nicole Kidman in the works, Dolly shared her success with Filipinos.

“I am so thrilled that it is happening not just to me, I feel like it is happening to all of us, ito na talaga ang chance natin to be in the world stage.”

Speaking of the world stage, Dolly just got back after wrapping a project in Chicago.

The thespian also took time to talk about her local film, Cinemalaya Best Picture Iti Mapukpukaw (The Missing), in hopes of raising funds for a fullon campaign in Hollywood for a shot at the Academy Awards. The film needs at least P6M by early December to be able to tell the world in tinseltown about it.

Dolly explained that it is not enough that you have a great film. It is also crucial that you get the word out in order for many voting members of the Academy to get to see it and that requires funds.

“You have to host screenings, dinners, meetings, Q&A’s PAGE B6

Kathryn’s celebrity friends unfollow Daniel, Andrea over rumored betrayal KATHRYN Bernardo’s celebrity friends unfollowed Daniel Padilla and Andrea Brillantes over a rumored betrayal.

Chie Filomeno and Robi Domingo unfollowed Daniel and Andrea on Instagram, while Loisa Andalio and Miles Ocampo only unfollowed Andrea.

Earlier this month, veteran showbiz reporter Ogie Diaz claimed that a source told him that

the follow-up single to last year’s “Palibot-libot,” an introspective synth-pop tune that reflects on the uncertainty of one-sided love. It will be part of a new album to be released sometime in 2024.

Aside from plans of releasing a brand-new record next year, Rico Blanco will be joining Bamboo Manalac, Mark Escueta and Nathan Azarcon for the Rivermaya: The Reunion concert, happening on February 17, 2024 at the SMDC Festival Grounds in Pasay City. Tickets to the highly anticipated show is now available via SM Tickets website and outlets nationwide.

Rico Blanco’s “Sayong sayo (Papel, Gunting, Bato)” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

(ManilaTimes.net) n Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla Photo from Instagram/@supremo_dp

EMPLOYMENT

date namin, nu’ng kaharap ko na siya, ninerbyos ako,” she recalled.

“Na-predict ko na na mas mamahalin ko ‘to kaysa mamahalin niya ako. Tina-try ko pang pigilan. After nu’ng date namin na ‘yon, sabi ko lakad muna tayo. Three hours naglakad kami around BGC (Bonifacio Global City) na naka-heels ako. Sabi ko, ‘Nako, ma-iinlove talaga ‘ko nito kasi kaya ko nang maglakad ng naka-heels,” she added.

After their first date, Yeng called Victor because she couldn’t sleep.

“Pero first date namin, ‘paguwi ko ng bahay parang sasabog ‘yung puso ko. Hindi ako makatulog so tinawagan ko siya ng 4 a.m. tapos sabi ko, ‘Hello, gising ka pa? Gusto mo ba talaga ko?’ Sabi niya, ‘Oo, gusto talaga kita e.’ Tapos sabi ko, ‘Pag itutuloy mo, ‘wag mo kong iwanan ha,’” she said.

Yeng and Victor tied the knot on February 14, 2015. n

Daniel and Andrea were allegedly secretly seeing each other.

“Talagang pinag-uusapan sa social media ‘yung ngang diumano ang hiwalayan ni Daniel at Kathryn na ang dahilan daw ay si...” Ogie said.

“Sino?” asked Mama Loi. “Eh siyempre hindi naman to confirmed ha.

Kaya dapat marinig din natin ang panig nila. Kasi nili-link si Daniel kay Andrea Brillantes,” Ogie answered. “’Di ba nakakaloka,” he added.

“Pero ‘di ba, Nay, dati may mga gano’n na chika?” asked Mama Loi again.

“Oo nga eh, hanggang ngayon ‘di mamataymatay,” Ogie said.

“Hindi nga, na ang pinagselosan ni Kathryn ay si Andrea Brillantes. Na may nag-chika pa sa akin na nagkikita ng lihim o pasikretong nagkikita si Daniel at si Andrea...” he further said in his talk show with Mama Loi. Meanwhile, a screenshot of Daniel’s supposed conversation with a fan is now viral on X, formerly Twitter.

“Relax na kayo aming mga Kathniels. Tama na ang pag aalala. Breathe. Ako na ang bahala sa lahat.

Mahal namin kayo sagad,” Daniel supposedly said. (by Jan Milo Severo/Philstar.com) n

FOR RENT

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California employees’ right to medical leave Interfering with or denying right is unlawful

you requests to HR or to any company’s representative. Note this request may be reviewed or evaluated in the future.

Under CFRA, your right as an employee for medical leave is deemed a protected activity.

Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. Hence, the law states that it shall be an unlawful employment Q. I HAVE worked full time practice for any employer to with my LA-based employer as engage in the following: an administrative assistant for a) to refuse to grant this more than 5 years. The company request for medical leave by any employs more than 50 employees. eligible employee like you.; I have been sick on and off due b) to discharge, fine, suspend, to some respiratory issues. expel, or discriminate against Initially I was absent for one you because of your exercise of and a half weeks in September the right to medical leave; due to this condition for c) to interfere with, which I saw my physician restrain, or deny the who prescribed some To avoid any misunderstanding exercise of, or the medications.

I then attempt to exercise the with your employer down the returned to work, but I got right ill again in mid-November.

If employees line, it is always advisable For this relapse, I went are terminated, to send your messages in back to see my doctor discriminated, or who gave me another set otherwise disciplined as writing by emails, letters, or of medications. a result of exercising text. As with any rule on I am currently resting their right to medical at home and have been leave, they are better communications, it is always unable to work for a off consulting with an advisable to be respectful, couple of weeks. I have experienced employment not done a medical leave instead of sounding entitled in attorney to know their from work but I wanted rights. Attorneys who you requests to HR or to any to see if I can get one represent employees because my doctor stated company’s representative. Note generally provide a that it will be beneficial for and no this request may be reviewed or confidential my health. I am concerned cost consultation that that I will be terminated employees can avail of. evaluated in the future. for absenteeism if I do so *** since I have been out for The opinions, beliefs and many weeks.. Do I have the right one occasion which results viewpoints expressed by the author do to be concerned? in a regiment of continuing not necessarily reflect the opinions, A: Under the California Family treatment under that provider’s beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Rights Act (“CFRA”), employers supervision.

Journal, its management, editorial with 5 or more employees must The employer has the right to board and staff. allow eligible employees to require a medical certification *** take up to 12 weeks of medical to prove your serious health The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. leave without fear of losing their condition. An employee may welcomes inquiries about this topic. jobs. You are eligible for CFRA be required to provide it within All inquiries are confidential and at no leave if you worked for your a period no less than 15 days cost. You can contact the office at (818) employer for at least 12 months unless it is impracticable for the 291-0088 or visit www.joesayaslaw. and worked at least 1, 250 hours employee to do so. Be diligent in com. [For more than 25 years, C. Joe within the past 12 months before obtaining this certification and Sayas, Jr., Esq. successfully recovered the medical leave. provide it as prompt as possible. wages and other monetary damages Based on your information, To avoid any for thousands of employees and it appears that you are eligible misunderstanding with your consumers. He was named Top Labor to file a CFRA medical leave. employer down the line, it is & Employment Attorney in California Note, however, that you must be always advisable to send your by the Daily Journal, selected as able to prove that have a serious messages in writing by emails, Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles health condition. “Serious health letters, or text. As with any rule Magazine for 11 years, and is a past condition” means an illness, on communications, it is always Presidential Awardee for Outstanding injury, impairment, or physical advisable to be respectful, Filipino Overseas.] or mental condition that involves instead of sounding entitled in (Advertising Supplement)

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights LA Santos was one of the celebrity storytellers of the recent 2023 Inquirer Read-Along Festival.

Photo by Eugene Araneta

LA Santos on portraying teen with autism

By Marinel Cruz Inquirer.net

ACTOR LA Santos, who plays a high schooler diagnosed with autism in FM Reyes’ dramatic film “In My Mother’s Eyes,” said the greatest lesson he has learned from playing his character was empathy.

“Tim is a special child. He is someone with high-functioning autism. He grew up away from his biological mother (Maricel Soriano) although he was raised well by his uncle (Roderick Paulate).

The film is all about his journey as he discovers how to live his life and to find out what he really wants to become when he grows up. He also wants to be able to bond with his mom now that she has returned to his life after so many years,” LA told Inquirer Entertainment during his visit to the PDI office in Makati City.

LA was one of the celebrity storytellers during the Inquirer Read-Along session held on Nov. 21.

Carrying the theme “Celebrating Life Through Stories of Inspirational People,” the event was the first to be held since the pandemic lockdowns.

In order to prepare for the role of Tim, LA said he sought help from members of Best Buddies Philippines, a nonprofit group helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“There, I got to meet the moms of children with disabilities, as well as some of the patients themselves. I interviewed them, tried to learn how they manage their day-to-day lives. I got to see the real them and discovered that their hearts are pure. Grabe sila mag-empathize. I’m thankful for this movie because I became more aware of their struggles,” the 23-year-old actor said.

Understanding oneself LA also attended an acting workshop with award-winning actress Ruby Ruiz, who is also part of the cast. “She taught me that the best way to act is to dig deep into your heart and make the emotion come out naturally. Actually, that’s what Inay Marya (Maricel) kept telling me throughout our shoot—be natural,” he recalled. “Aside from Ms Ruby, I also learned acting from director Jerry Sineneng and actress Gina Alajar. I’m mentioning them now because I also want to thank them.

They’re part of the reason I’m still in this industry.”

Meanwhile, LA admitted that he was diagnosed with “mild autism” (Level 1 autism spectrum disorder) himself. “I had speech delay so I attended therapy for years. I was only able to talk at age 7 or 8. I remember feeling very frustrated whenever I wanted something, but wasn’t able to communicate it,” he said. “I’m thankful to my family because, early on, they were able to make me understand that I’m different from other kids my age. They also taught me independence. I think parents should also treat their kids this way—to not hide their kids’ condition from them.

Everything starts from within, from understanding oneself.”

Grateful LA said he is grateful to his mom, who instead of making him study in a school for special children, opted to enroll him in a “regular” public school.

LA, however, pointed out that each child is unique and that what works for one child might not be as effective for another. “Studying in a public school worked well for me because I got exposed to children my age, but with different personalities.

I became more aware. I learned how to adapt.”

He continued: “Unlike other actors who got to experience being slapped by Inay Marya, I got to push her to the ground for one scene. I was crying as I said sorry to her after doing it, but we both knew that we couldn’t fake it, that it had to look natural. So I guess it’s an honor to be able to push Maricel Soriano to the ground.”

LA also said he saw for himself how “legendary” Roderick is as a comedian. “I would always ask him questions about acting and request for some pointers. For me, Tito Dick is one of the best actors in the country.”

In the future, LA said he hoped to work with Ian Veneracion or Alden Richards in a comedy project.

“It’s really my first love. I want to be a Filipino version of Adam Sandler some day, someone who is able to give happiness to people,” he declared.

“In His Mother’s Eyes,” directed by FM Reyes and written by Gina Marissa Tagasa and Jerry Gracio, is produced by 7K Entertainment. The film will be screened in theaters nationwide starting Nov. 29. n

either of the following: a) Inpatient care in a hospital, hospice, or residential health care facility. b) Continuing treatment or continuing supervision by a health care provider.

Under the Regulations implementing CFRA, serious health condition can exist even without hospital in patient care. This condition is met if an employe is not able to work for at least 3 consecutive days, and which also involves treatment two or more times by a health care provider or treatment by a health care provider on at least

B6 NOVEMBER 25-28, 2023 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes WHAT is the difference between a divorce and an annulment? Many people think these concepts are the same and interchangeable. There are many differences between the two concepts. A divorce ends a valid existing marriage.

In a nullity, a determination is made about the validity of the marriage itself. When a marriage is annulled, it has the same effect as if the marriage never existed. A nullity results in a void.

In California, any spouse can obtain a divorce regardless of the reason. A common basis used is a catchall phrase “irreconcilable differences.” However, anyone who wants to end a marriage can end the marriage and there is nothing the other spouse can do to stop that. However in a petition for nullity, the court will not automatically grant you the nullity. There has to be a legal basis for seeking the nullity as outlined in the family code.

Some of the basis are 1) entering into a bigamous marriage 2) incestuous marriage 3)fraud in obtaining the other spouse’s consent to marriage 4) incurable physical incapacity 5) unsound mind among others.

The petitioner would have to prove one of these grounds in court to be able to get a nullity.

In a Nullity, there is a statute

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What is the difference between Maximizing recovery in an annulment and a divorce? personal injury cases of limitations. That means you have to file your nullity within a certain time period depending on the basis for seeking the Nullity. Each ground has a different statute of limitation.

For example, if you are filing the nullity based on fraud, you have to file within 4 years of discovering the fraud. If you blow the statute of limitation, this can be used as a defense to dismiss your case. On the other hand there is no statute of limitation in a divorce. You

support (alimony) is different between the two. In a divorce, the spouse that has less earning capacity and access to resources may seek an award of spousal support. This is not available in a Nullity since the marriage is invalid and there is no spouse as a result.

The division of property is also different. In a divorce, community property is divided equally between the spouses.

In a nullity, since there is no valid marriage, there is no

In a divorce, husband and wife are presumed to be the parents of children born during the marriage. In a Nullity, the marriage has no validity so it will affect the presumption of parentage of the children. can file a divorce at any time regardless of how long you have been separated from your spouse.

In a divorce, husband and wife are presumed to be the parents of children born during the marriage. In a Nullity, the marriage has no validity so it will affect the presumption of parentage of the children. The Court will have to make a finding of parentage for the children on a different basis before it can make orders relating to custody, visitation, and support.

The treatment of spousal

community property created and properties are not divided between the spouse. Similarly, neither party can receive survivorship benefits and inheritance rights from the other party in a Nullity.

Finally, there are different immigration consequences between a divorce and a nullity when an immigrant spouse is involved. In a divorce, the immigrant spouse who obtains a greencard from a US Citizen spouse stands a bigger chance of keeping his or her greencard and ultimately become a

US Citizen. In a nullity, the immigrant spouse may lose their greencard status when the marriage is found to be invalid since it is the basis for the greencard. It can jeopardize the immigration status of the legal permanent resident spouse. *** 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 a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010.

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

Legal Advice Atty. DArricK tAn

DEAR Attorney Tan, I was driving home and was at a complete stop when another driver rear ended my car. I was not feeling well after the accident, as my back seemed very tight and stiff. I took some days off from work. After a week, I contacted the other driver’s insurance to report the claim.

The insurance adjuster for the other driver said they would fix my car, and offered me $500.00 for my injuries. Is that enough?

I do not know where to go from here. –K.K. Dear K.K., The first step is to make sure that any injuries that you have suffered in the accident are examined and treated. You can recover treatment costs since they are considered “economic damages” that you suffered due to the accident. You can also recover for time away from work as “economic damages,” even if you used paid time off or sick leave.

The term “economic damages” means “objectively verifiable monetary losses (Advertising Supplement) including medical expenses, loss of earnings, burial costs, loss of use of property, costs of repair or replacement, costs of obtaining substitute domestic services, loss of employment and loss of business or employment opportunities.”

Civil Code Section 1431.2(b)(1). A person’s claim for economic damages apart from medical expenses are often overlooked and not pursued by persons who settle their accident cases on their own, or with the assistance of inexperienced counsel.

Loss of earnings are often a significant part of an injured person’s claim for economic damages.

Damages are recoverable for both past and future lost earnings. To recover for past lost earnings, a person must prove the amount of income or earnings that he/she has lost to date. To recover damages for future earnings, a person must prove the amount of income or earnings that he/she will be reasonably certain to lose in the future as a result of the injury.

CACI No. 3903C. How are past lost earnings proven? Medical records, which show the doctor authorizing a release from work or giving instructions to restrict work activities, can support the time taken off from work due to the injury. For those self-employed, medical providers typically do not provide a release from work; however, medical records should record work restrictions placed by the medical provider.

After showing that the time off was justified, the next step is to value the lost earnings. A letter from a person’s employer that outlines the amount of time that one has lost as a result of his/her injury, the loss of benefits, and the rate of pay during the time of loss is evidence of the value of one’s loss of earnings claim.

Other supporting documents include pay stubs, time cards, and tax returns. The monetary value of sick leave and vacation time that are used due to the injury are also recoverable. For those self-employed, earnings history as reflected by tax returns and profit and loss statements can help prove the value of lost earnings. Similar supporting documentation must be presented for future lost earnings.

Apart from economic damages, you can recover “general damages,” which are damages for the pain, suffering, and inconvenience due to the accident.

If you were suffered injury in an auto accident or someone’s premises, please contact our office to discuss your case. To maximize monetary recovery, it is important to have the assistance of an experienced attorney in presenting your personal injury claim. *** 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)

Dolly de Leon will...

PAGE B3 receptions and it takes money,” she said, adding. “It’s really for them to watch our film, and if you like it, vote for us, but if you don’t, you don’t have to vote for us.”

Dolly is set to take on her muchneeded vacation in Batangas with her children to wrap up the year

as she embarks on another big project next year.

“Meron doon puno, bundok, grass, I love nature kasi. Ako talaga iyong tipo na kailangan mag-relax after ng malaking trabaho. Kailangan ko ng break bago sumabak sa malaking trabaho,” she concluded. n

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-28, 2023 B7

B8 NOVEMBER 25-28, 2023 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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