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DECEMBER 10-16, 2021 Serving San Diego Since 1987 • 12 Pages

T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r

Also published in LOS ANGELES • ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE • NORTHERN CALIFORNIA • NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY • LAS VEGAS

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Should travelers cancel holiday flight plans?

DATELINE USA US tightens travel measures amid omicron Attorney General FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Bonta issues charity consumer alert ahead of holiday season

CALIFORNIA Attorney General Rob Bonta is sharing tips and resources on how to avoid scams while donating this holiday season.

Bonta has the primary responsibility for supervising charities and the professional fundraisers who solicit on their behalf in California.

Under Government Code section 12598, the Attorney General may investigate and bring legal actions against charities that misuse charitable assets or engage in fraudulent fundraising practices. In providing these tips, Attorney General Bonta encourages donors to take the necessary steps to ensure that their donations get into the correct hands.

“This time of year, residents of Santa Barbara are stepping up to support one another by giving both their time and donations to local nonprofit organizations.

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

THE coronavirus omicron variant couldn’t have come at a worse time for travelers planning to hop on planes for the holiday season.

The highly contagious COVID-19 variant has made its way to the United States, prompting the U.S. to implement yet another round of controversial restrictions and regulations.

Last week, the White House announced new actions to combat the omicron variant (as well as the delta variant) this coming winter season.

Starting Monday, Dec. 6, all international travelers coming into the U.S. will now be required to test within one day of departure — previously the time frame to get tested was “within three days of departure” to the U.S. The one-day time frame applies to everyone, regardless of vaccination status and nationality, the

by daphne

Galvez Inquirer.net

Is it time to change the definition of ‘fully vaccinated’?

u PAGE 4

ASTRAZENECA JABS. A forklift operator maneuvers the vehicle to transfer a container of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine into a reefer van at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 on Thursday, December 9. The latest shipment of 255,200 doses of the AstraZeneca jabs was procured by the private sector.

PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr.

MANILA — Upon the invitation of United States President Joseph Biden, President Rodrigo Duterte will participate in the Summit for Democracy scheduled for Dec. 9 to 10, the Office of the President (OP) said on Tuesday, December 7.

OP said President Biden has invited heads of states and government, other government leaders, and “voices from the business and nongovernment sectors” to join the U.S. in “taking action to strengthen democracy.”

“President Duterte welcomes the opportunity to share the Philippine democratic experience and commitment to democratic values and nationbuilding at the Summit for Democracy,” the OP

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Marcos disqualification petitions ‘nuisance cases’, says spokesman

by Bernadette

e. taMayo

ManilaTimes.net

THE camp of former senator and presidential aspirant Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, December 7 maintained that the disqualification (DQ) petitions against him were nothing but “nuisance cases.”

Marcos’ spokesman, lawyer Victor Rodriguez, in a statement said all the petitions filed with the Commission on Elections

(Comelec), which seek to disqualify the former from the 2022 presidential race, or cancel his certificate of candidacy, “are now being addressed by our legal team.”

“And while we maintain that these petitions are nothing but nuisance cases, we urge those who are behind these pathetic stunts to please respect the Filipino people and their democratic right to decide for themselves and their collective future,” Rodriguez said.

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Meet the Filipinos who made Forbes’‘30 Under 30’ class of 2021

by Klarize

Senator Manny Pacquiao going around San Pedro, Laguna on Tuesday, December 7.

Photo courtesy of Sen. Pacquiao’s office

Medenilla

AJPress

THE year 2021 was a complicated year for the Filipino American community.

As Filipinos (and Asians and Asian Americans in general) continue to fight misinformation and bigotry of anti-Asian hate, communities are seeking respite and unity amid the tragedies of COVID-19.

However devastating and hopeless the year may have been for Filipinos, there were plenty of high points and young members of the community stepping up and Olivia Rodrigo

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Duterte accepts invite from Biden to participate in democracy summit

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AS more indoor venues require proof of vaccination for entrance and with winter — as well as omicron, a new COVID variant — looming, scientists and public health officials are debating when it will be time to change the definition of “fully vaccinated” to include a booster shot.

It’s been more than six months since many Americans finished their vaccination course against COVID; statistically, their immunity is waning.

At the same time, cases of infections with the omicron variant have been reported in at least 17 states, as of Monday, December 6. Omicron is distinguished by at least 50 mutations, some of which appear to be associated with increased transmissibility.

The World Health Organization dubbed it a variant of concern on Nov. 26.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that everyone 18 and older get a COVID booster

White House said. Testing will be required for all travelers aged 2 years old and above, and it only applies to air travelers.

Foreign travelers entering the U.S. still need to be fully vaccinated in order to travel, but unvaccinated Americans and legal permanent residents are permitted to enter the U.S. with a test taken within one day of their departure to the U.S. President Joe Biden also announced that masks

Photo from Instagram/@oliviarodrigo

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Basilisa Tagget-Smith, originally from Bohol, was found dead in a room at Bally’s Hotel where she had worked for more than thirty years.

Photo from Facebook

Filipina housekeeper found dead in Las Vegas hotel room

A FILIPINA hotel housekeeper was found dead in a room at Bally’s Hotel in Las Vegas on Sunday, Nov. 28.

Basilisa Tagget-Smith, 61, was found unresponsive and was rushed to a nearby

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Pacquiao says he won’t stop giving relief, cash until campaign season begins by neil

arwin Mercado Inquirer.net

MANILA — Amid accusations of vote-buying, presidential aspirant Senator Manny Pacquiao insisted on Tuesday, December 7 he will not stop giving relief and cash to the public until the campaign season officially begins next year.

Pacquiao said that politicians should just do the same since it is the Christmas season, adding that the aid could help those

affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

He added that the would only stop giving away cash and relief once the official campaign period begins or if he was forbidden by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

“Hanggat ‘di pa dumating yung time ng official campaign period, yung pagtutulong natin sa kapwa, sa taumbayan ay matagal ko nang ginagawa, noon pang 2002,” Pacquaio said.

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DECEMBER 10-16, 2021 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

Marcos disqualification petitions ‘nuisance...

lodged against BBM (Bongbong not be muted and thwarted,” he on November 2 by the group PAGE 1 “We also urge them not to re- Marcos),” said former Cebu City said.

Kapatid. move the right of the people to Councilor Erik Espina.

Espina voiced hope that their Another petition was also filed freely choose their leader and “We also wanted a fair hear- protest will be replicated in oth- on November 8, which was folstop looking down on the intel- ing by the Comelec and not set- er provinces and cities. lowed by a third one from former ligence of the Filipino people,” tle this by technicality. The voice A petition for the cancellation Bayan Muna partylist represenhe added. of the sovereign people must of Marcos’ CoC was initially filed tative Satur Ocampo. n Rodriguez stressed that “elections are won and settled on election day and not through the filing of nuisance petitions.”

Marcos’ supporters in Cebu City on November 18 held a protest rally in front of the Comelec Central Visayas office to denounce the petitions seeking the cancellation of his CoC. They claimed that they were representing various groups Danalee Pascua faces involuntary manslaughter charges, which carry a maximum four-year opposed to the “dirty tactics prison sentence.

Photo from Inquirer.net being utilized by some desperate camps who are afraid that a Marcos presidency will bring out the true potential of the nation.”

The group, whose members identified themselves as “Cebuanos Kontra DQ,” gathered at Plaza Independencia then marched to the Comelec office, where they held a small program and A FILIPINA former prison while the San Diego County lit red candles to symbolize their Department resentment. nurse pleaded not guilty to Sheriff’s causing an inmate’s death, at investigated the incident.

“The purpose of this gatherA March 2020 press ing is to voice our resistance to Ferdinand Alexander ‘Sandro’ Marcos (holding mike on stage) drew crowds when he represented his father, former senator Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ her first court appearance on Friday, Nov. 19 at the El Cajon, release from jail officials the disqualification cases being Marcos Jr., and vice presidential aspirant Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio at a rally in Valencia City in Bukidnon on Sunday, Dec. 5.

ManilaTimes.net photo stated that Serna died “from California courthouse.

Danalee Pascua, 36, two complications of drug abuse, weeks ago was accused of with a contributing factor of causing the death of 24-year- early intrauterine pregnancy.” old inmate Elisa Serna in 2019. She had been booked into Las Pascua faces involuntary Colinas the week before her even those who plan to travel to and from travelers may find their flights canceled and manslaughter charges, which death, reportedly on “theft and PAGE 1 are required for all travelers in airports, countries with no currently known cases of themselves stranded overseas. carry a maximum four-year drug-related” charges.

Following the news of omicron, the Pascua was suspended planes, trains, and other public transit omicron. prison sentence. The former Over the Thanksgiving holiday (which was Philippines quickly imposed its own nurse at Las Colinas Detention without pay two weeks ago modes — again, regardless of vaccination Facility has no criminal record. when charges were filed. status and nationality. This federal mandate when the WHO classified omicron a “variant travel ban and restrictions to prevent the The District Attorney’s office Her attorney said Pascua had is an extension of a previous one and applies of concern”) U.S. airlines transported about spread of the new variant. Along with the 2.4 million passengers, the most since aforementioned southern African countries, stated that on Nov. 10, 2019, cooperated during the two- through March 18.

The CDC warns that a person should February 2020. the Philippine government added Austria, Elisa Serna, 24, an inmate year internal investigation.

Though not much is known about the Belgium, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Some 50 people turned out be fully vaccinated before traveling at the Las Colinas Detention Facility in Santee, California for Pascua’s arraignment on internationally, while the World Health variant so far, health officials and experts Italy, the Netherlands, and Switzerland — complained of dizziness and Nov. 19 to support her plea of Organization (WHO) advises people who are urging travelers to not risk it and stay which all have reported cases of omicron — to its red list, barring travelers until Dec. 15. nausea and was moved to the innocence. Some believe she is are not fully vaccinated, have never been home for the holidays. infected, and have underlying health issues “We’ll know more in a couple weeks, but The U.S. had not been included in its being made into a scapegoat. medical observation unit.

I think people should really get ready to red list despite reporting cases of Omicron At her arraignment, Pascua to postpone travel plans.

The next day, Nov. 11, Last week, the Biden administration hit the pause button [on air travel plans],” in multiple states, including California, nurse Danalee Pascua went to was ordered to turn herself Serna’s cell to take her vital into her former workplace to announced a travel ban of foreign nationals Dr. Robert Murphy, professor of infectious however, travelers to the Philippines will signs. Pascua is accused of be booked and released with of eight countries in southern Africa: diseases and director of the Institute for be subjected to quarantine protocols Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Global Health at Northwestern University, depending on their vaccination status and not taking Serna’s vitals when conditions on Dec. 12, 2021.

COVID-19 test results.

“As a condition of the Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and told NPR this week. the latter fell in her presence.

He added that immunocompromised “Border controls can be used to delay release, she Zimbabwe. The controversial ban came She allegedly left Serna on the defendant’s ground without moving her cannot practice medicine. She after the CDC classified these nations as individuals, senior citizens, and anyone with entry of the new virus and buy time, but any underlying health issues “should not be every country and community must prepare cannot practice nursing on any “very high” for COVID-19 transmission. into a recovery position.

U.S. citizens and LPRs who may be in traveling anywhere.” for new surges,” Dr. Babatunde Olowokure, About an hour later, Pascua patients,” Assistant District those countries are permitted to return with Murphy especially cautioned people regional emergency director of WHO, said and deputies returned to Attorney John Dunlap said. planning to travel overseas, who are “at on Friday in a press briefing.

Pascua will remain out on the one-day test requirement.

Serna’s cell and began These travel restrictions, and the threat much higher risk than” domestic travelers.

In the Western Pacific region, the omicron “futile life-saving measures.” her own recognizance. Her With countries imposing their own variant has been detected in Australia, Hong Pascua was placed on paid next court hearing is on Feb. of a new coronavirus variant entering new countries, put a hold on travel plans, travel restrictions, there’s a chance that Kong, Japan, and South Korea. n administrative assignment 17, 2022. (Inquirer.net) n

California jail nurse charged with causing an inmate’s death

Should travelers cancel holiday flight plans? US tightens...

Filipina housekeeper found dead in...

PAGE 1 hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Tagget-Smith, immigrated from Bohol to the U.S. in 1987 and had worked at Bally’s for over 30 years. Her death is the second to be experienced by

her family within a few months.

In March, her other son Reggie, 42, shot and killed a security guard at the Wynn Resort parking lot before turning the gun on himself.

At first police considered her death suspicious, possibly

a homicide, and even released a video of a person of interest.

However, her son Lemuel Tagget, who later spoke with the police said his mother died of natural causes. She apparently had a stroke. (Inquirer. net) n

Duterte accepts invite from Biden...

PAGE 1 said in a statement.

In his invitation, Biden said the U.S. will host the event “with humility and in the spirit of mutual learning.”

He added that together, nations will “embark on the work necessary to shape a prosperous and peaceful future built on respect for the rights and aspirations of all people.”

“We recognize and appreciate your partnership in working to build democratic and

human-rights respecting societies that allow all citizens to thrive. In a moment of significant challenge and enormous opportunity, it is more important than ever for democracies to prove that we can deliver for the needs of our people,” OP said, quoting Biden in his invitation as saying.

Biden also said he looks forward to welcoming Duterte and hearing his ideas on “how we can foster a more democratic, equitable, inclusive and sustainable world.” n

Pacquiao says he won’t stop giving...

COMMITMENT WALL. Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Director-General Jeremiah Belgica leads the signing on the Pledge of Commitment wall at the Ease Of Doing Business (EODB) summit at the Hotel Novotel Manila Araneta City in Cubao, Quezon City on Thursday, December 9. The summit’s theme is “Doing Business in action: Pursuing greater efficiency towards the new normal.” PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

PAGE 1 “Magpapatuloy yan hanggang sa pagbawalan tayo ng Comelec, susunod tayo. Pero nasa puso ko na yung pagtulong mula pa noon,” he added.

Pacquiao said he only wants to help the public, saying that he

cannot bring his money to the grave.

“Itago niyo ang pera niyo, kahit bilyon-bilyon pa yan, kahit trillion pa, pag namatay ka di mo naman madadala ‘yan. Kung tumulong ka sa kapwa, napakibabangan mo,

napakinabangan pa ng iba.

Nakatulong ka sa kapwa,” Pacquiao said.

“Ngayon kung naiinggit sila, gawin din nila. Lalung-lalo na yung mga nagnanakaw sa gobyerno, ibigay nila yung pera sa taumbayan, ” he added. n

(818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 10-16, 2021

SFIO closes $5M series of global distribution partnerships for premium beverages and New Zealand Manuka honey GLOBAL asset management company Starfleet Innotech, Inc. (OTC: SFIO-Smokefree Innotec, Inc.) entered into a partnership last month with food ingredients supplier Annapolis Co., Ltd., granting SFIO distribution rights over a suite of products under their premium beverage solutions brand LongBeach. This is the latest in a series of agreements the asset company has signed, following a similar arrangement with SFIO’s New Zealand-based subsidiary Gorgeous Coffee Co. Altogether, these partnerships are projected to launch SFIO towards their $100 million revenue target by the end of 2022.

With this latest partnership, Thailand’s leading premium ingredients supplier for beverages and bakeries, Annapolis Co., Ltd., will see its LongBeach brand premium purees, syrups, sauces, powders, and teas sold across SFIO’s sprawling food service network in Australia and New Zealand.

According to the latest data from Statista, despite the ongoing pandemic, Australia and New Zealand’s cafes, restaurants, and takeaway food services together present a roughly $36 billion market, which is expected to grow steadily over the next few years.

Beginning January 2022, SFIO will be the sole distributor of LongBeach products across these two markets’ thriving food service industries. The company expects this deal alone to bring in up to $5 million in additional revenue for SFIO’s food and beverage division.

Earlier this year, SFIO

established a global expansion roadmap for their fully-owned subsidiary Gorgeous Coffee Co. that would see New Zealand Manuka honey and a premium health brand of 5-in-1 Instant Coffee reaching U.S. shelves as early as next year.

New Zealand’s Manuka honey, considered the best in the world, is a highly valued, energy-boosting superfood boasting a distinct earthy flavor and health benefits such as antioxidants, probiotics, and antibacterial support. The honey is graded according to a global potency scale called the Unique Manuka Factor, or UMF. Come January 2022, SFIO will be distributing Manuka honey variants, including UMF 5+, UMF 10+, UMF 15+, and UMF 20+.

Revenues from this arrangement are expected to reach $1 million by the end of 2022. Samples of the Manuka honey products have already been shipped to the United States and parts of the United Arab Emirates, with SFIO currently working on sending more to other countries across Asia.

Similarly, Gorgeous Coffee Co.’s 5-in-1 Instant Coffee will be exported across the United States, Australia, and Asia,

including the United Arab Emirates. The product is a healthful mix of premium Arabica coffee, Manuka honey, barley grass, non-dairy MCT creamer, and Stevia. In addition to the benefits of Manuka honey, the instant coffee mix claims to aid in digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity thanks to its barley components. Followers of the popular keto diet will also appreciate the instant coffee’s MCT creamer, an easy-to-digest alternative to traditional dairy.

The instant coffee product is expected to bring in at least $2 million in additional revenue for SFIO. Samples have already been sent to potential partners in the United States.

These partnerships play into the asset management company’s long-term ecosystem strategy, which prioritizes high-value synergies across its growing portfolio of companies.

Leveraging the expanding footprint of its food and beverage businesses, including flagship franchise business Epiphany Cafe, these products will be rapidly stocking shelves across the globe as early as the first quarter of next year.

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© 2021 San Diego Gas & Electric Company.

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DECEMBER 10-16, 2021 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

Attorney General Bonta...

Marianne Paguia Gonzalez

Alyssa Navarro

Trisha Bantigue

PAGE 1 providing inspiration to the masses.

Every year, Forbes releases its “30 Under 30” list which honors innovators, tastemakers, and influencers under 30 years old to show that wisdom and tenacity can manifest even in younger generations.

The class of 2022 is one of the most diverse lists since the magazine began its “30 Under 30” lists 10 years ago.

According to the magazine, nearly half of the individuals listed identify as people of color and about a quarter are immigrants.

And, unsurprisingly, quite a few of the celebrants are members of the Filipino and Filipino American communities.

Olivia Rodrigo, singer/songwriter/actor If only one name could define the pop music genre in 2021, it would be Olivia Rodrigo. The 18-year-old sensation claimed 2021 with her viral hit single “drivers license.” The award-winning torch ballad would just be the beginning of her speedy ascent, which accelerated with the May release of her debut album “SOUR,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200.

Aside from being the voice of Generation Z, Rodrigo also participated in a vaccine campaign alongside the White House to promote vaccinations among younger Americans. In the latter half of the year, the young star scooped up a bevy of awards including Best New Artist at the American Music Awards and three MTV Video Music Awards.

As if the year couldn’t get better for

America’s It Girl, Rodrigo also received seven 2022 Grammy nominations.

Marianne Paguia Gonzalez, engineer at NASA Jet Propulsion Lab At 29 years old, Marianne Gonzalez’s work is out of this world — literally.

As a chemical engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab, she has worked on several projects including an experiment designed to generate oxygen on the planet Mars.

Currently, she is working on an exploration into the possibility of microbial life on one of Jupiter’s moons.

In March, Gonzalez, who is a secondgeneration Filipino American, told the Asian Journal, “As a Filipina and a minority in this field, it is easy to feel like you might not belong. I would encourage any aspiring Filipina engineers to work on building their confidence. Being a woman of color in a dominantly male field can be scary at times.

As long as you remind yourself about why you’re passionate about engineering, it makes it all worth it.”

Alyssa Navarro, executive producer Walt Disney Studios As media and entertainment companies strive toward more diverse workforces, Alyssa Navarro of Walt Disney Studios is front and center of the cause. Navarro, 27, specializes in minority representation and inclusion strategies for the entertainment titan and was integral in the formation of Disney Launchpad Shorts Incubator, which gives up-and-coming filmmakers a platform to showcase their work on Disney+.

Writing in an Instagram post celebrating her inclusion on Forbes’ list, Navarro wrote, “Representation, diversity, equity, and inclusion is so meaningful and personal to me. The fact that Forbes has recognized this work validates my passion and dedication to continue to open doors so that more people from underrepresented backgrounds get to tell their stories on the big screen.”

John Vincent Salcedo, vice president of digital marketing at Columbia Records As Columbia Records youngest and only Filipino vice president, Salcedo has been overseeing marketing strategies for some of today’s most exciting musical acts, including Tyler, the Creator’s Billboard No. 1 album “CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST” and Lil Nas X’s hit singles “MONTERO (Call Me

By Your Name)” and “Industry Baby (feat.

Jack Harlow).”

As a Filipino who migrated to the U.S. as a young kid, he has made it a mission to bring in more Filipinos and Filipino

Americans into the music industry. He told Myx Global earlier this year, “Filipinos have wild talent and as one of those who have been blessed with a position in one of the biggest global music labels, I hope to bridge the gap, build more connections, and bring to the spotlight our creative prowess.”

Bella Poarch, TikTok star In the pantheon of viral social media stars, Bella Poarch’s rise seemingly came out of nowhere. But once she came on to the scene, her place in the Generation Z cultural imagination was secured.

An immigrant from the Philippines who was born to Filipino parents and adopted by a white father and Filipina mother, the now-24-year-old Poarch initially enlisted in the United States Navy and served from 2015 to 2019, after her parents disapproved of her performing in a high school talent show.

In 2020 she created a TikTok account that started off as a gaming and cosplay account, but that summer, she gained a massive following from her lip-sync videos where she dons a cutesy, e-girl aesthetic.

This past May, she released her first single, “Build a Bitch,” and continues to rise the ranks of Gen Z idolatry.

Trisha Bantigue, co-founder of Queenly As a Pinay, Trisha Bantigue knows the importance of pageantry in the Filipino community. But her story is unlike most Filipinas who decide to model and enter beauty pageants.

After escaping abuse as a teenager, Bantigue leveraged her ambition for a better future through working at fast-food joints, modeling and entering pageants to earn a living. After graduating from UC Berkeley, she worked at some of Silicon Valley’s largest firms like Facebook and Google before co-founding the online marketplace Queenly with Kathy Zhou (with whom Bantigue is featured on the Forbes list) in 2017.

Queenly allows users to resell formalwear to other pageant contestants, kind of like Poshmark or Depop but specifically for pageant wear, which can cost hundreds of dollars.

“Making it to the @forbes 30 Under 30 list is a literal dream come true, and never would I have thought I’d be on a Forbes cover by age 27. I can’t even begin to explain the overwhelming feeling of gratitude right now as it all feels so surreal (yes I’m screaming inside as I type this out),” Bantigue wrote on Instagram.

She added, “Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to create an impact onto society and with @queenlyapp, I have the opportunity to touch millions of lives. My past self would be so damn proud seeing this today.”

Rachell Hoffstetter, gaming content creator at 100 Thieves As an entertainment medium, gaming has become one of the hottest spaces over the last decade. Traditionally a male-dominated (and often misogynist) space, several women have come to the fore to establish a more diverse gaming community.

Rachell “Valkyrae” Hofstetter is quite possibly the most influential female game streamer in the gaming world with more than 3 million subscribers on YouTube and Instagram, each. In 2020, she was named Content Creator of the Year at The Game Awards and joined 100 Thieves, a top gaming and esports organization.

Reacting to her placement on the Forbes list, she wrote on Twitter, “I MADE THE FORBES 30 under 30 LIST!!!!!!!!!! I’m honored.. this was one of my goals and i can’t believe it actually happened.. wow” n

Meet the Filipinos who made Forbes’...

John Vincent Salcedo

Bella Poarch

Photo from Instagram/@bellapoarch

Rachell Hofstetter

PAGE 1 One of those nonprofits being Unity Shoppe, whose volunteers and donors help provide food and critical support services to those in need,” said Bonta. “Many depend on the generosity of residents throughout our state, which is why it is important to make sure that you are contributing to legitimate charities, such as Unity Shoppe.

As Attorney General, my office is committed to protecting donors from deceptive solicitations. You can help our efforts by taking essential steps in researching charities before giving this holiday season. If you believe that a charity or fundraiser has acted in bad faith, please report it immediately at oag.ca.gov/ charities/complaints.”

“Day in and day out, and for more than a century, Unity Shoppe has held the trust of the community by working in a manner that is reliable, welcoming, and inclusive, and that meets the critical needs of our most vulnerable residents,” said Tom Reed, Executive Director of Unity Shoppe Inc. “I couldn’t be more proud and grateful for our community of volunteers and donors, small and large, who entrust us with this important work.”

Donation tips • Check the Registration Status: Charities operating in California and telemarketers soliciting donations in California are required to register with the Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts. They are also required to file annual financial reports, which are made available to the public.

Prior to making a donation, make sure to confirm that the charity is registered and up-todate with its financial reporting by searching the Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts’ database, located here.

• Give to Organizations You Trust: Do your research before giving. Review the charity’s purpose and find out how the charity spends its donations.

How much is spent directly on the charitable cause? How much goes to overhead and employee compensation?

Research charities in your community and support those charities that make a positive impact. If you choose to donate to a charity you are unfamiliar with, contact the charity and ask for information in writing about its programs and finances. You should also confirm the charity’s name, address, and its nonprofit status.

• Be Wary of Social Network Fundraising: If you are planning to donate through a social network solicitation, first do some research. Find out what percentage is going to the charity, whether you will be charged a fee, or if a percentage of your donation will be paid to the platform website.

• Don’t Be Pressured by Telemarketers – Ask Questions Before Donating: If you receive a call from a telemarketer, ask for the name of the fundraising organization, whether it is registered with the Attorney General’s Office, the name of the charity benefitting from the solicitation, how much of your donation will go to charity and how much to the telemarketer, and the direct telephone number of the charity. If the telemarketer tells you the donation is for your local animal shelter, hospital, school, police, firefighter, or other public safety agency, check directly with the benefitting organization to confirm that it authorized the solicitation and will actually benefit from your donation. Don’t fall for pressure tactics or threats. Remember that you have the right to reject the donation appeal and if you feel pressured or threatened, just hang up.

• Be Vigilant When Donating After Natural Disasters or Tragedies: Well-intentioned or otherwise, charities are sometimes formed overnight to address calamities. As a result, oftentimes they lack the experience, contacts, and staff needed to respond to a disaster.

Fraudsters are always seeking to capitalize on people’s desire to help. Even during a crisis, make sure to take your time to research a charity before giving.

• Watch Out for SimilarSounding Names, Web Addresses, and Other Deceptive Tactics: Fraudulent organizations may use names that closely resemble those of well-established charitable organizations in order to mislead donors. Look out for fraudulent websites that have a slightly different web address (URL) than that of a legitimate charitable organization. Similarlooking URLs are sometimes purchased by fraudsters to lure in would-be donors. These sites may ask you for personal information or install harmful material onto your device. Be skeptical if someone thanks you for a pledge you never made, and always check your records.

• Understand the Difference Between “Tax-Exempt” and “Tax-Deductible”: Being a nonprofit does not mean the organization is exempt from taxation, or that your donation is tax-deductible. Generally, a tax-exempt organization is exempt from paying tax on its income and gifts, but may or may not be able to offer a charitable tax deduction to donors for their contributions.

Just because an organization has a “Tax ID Number” or provides donors with a receipt that says “keep this receipt for your records” does not mean that the organization is a charity, tax-exempt, or that your donation is tax-deductible. A few tax-exempt organizations – most notably those given 501(c) (3) tax-exempt status by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – are able to offer charitable tax deductions for your donations.

If you are not sure whether your donation is tax-deductible, verify the charity’s tax-exempt status by using the tools and information located on the IRS website.

• Consider the Costs of Gifts and Merchandise: Gifts that you receive from a charity in exchange for your donation cost money and generally, these expenses are paid from donated funds. The value of the goods and services that you receive for your donation is not tax-deductible. Some charities may sell merchandise online and claim that “100% of the proceeds” will benefit its charitable purpose. However, this does not necessarily mean that 100% of the sales price of the merchandise will go to charity, and the cost of the merchandise itself can greatly reduce the value of your donation.

• Protect Your Identity: Never give your Social Security number or other personal information in response to a charitable solicitation. Never give out credit card information to an organization unfamiliar to you. Some organizations sell or rent their donor lists to other organizations, including organizations that are not charities. Review the charity’s privacy policy to find out if your information will be shared with outside companies.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your donations, visit the California Attorney General’s tips webpage at oag.ca.gov/donations.

Complaints against charities can be filed using the charity complaint form at oag.ca.gov/ charities/complaints. n

Is it time to change the definition of ‘fully vaccinated’...

PAGE 1 shot, revising its narrower guidance that only people 50 and up “should” get a shot while younger adults could choose whether or not to do so. Scientists assume the additional shots will offer significant protection from the new variant, though they do not know for certain how much.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief medical adviser to President Joe Biden, during a White House press briefing Wednesday was unequivocal in advising the public. “Get boosted now,” Fauci said, adding urgency to the current federal guidance. About a quarter of U.S. adults have received additional vaccine doses.

“The definition of ‘fully vaccinated’ has not changed. That’s, you know, after your second dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, after your single dose of a Johnson & Johnson vaccine,” said the CDC’s director, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, during Tuesday’s White House briefing on COVID. “We are absolutely encouraging those who are eligible for a boost six months after those mRNA doses to get your boost. But we are not changing the definition of ‘fully vaccinated’ right now.” A booster is recommended two months after receiving the J&J shot.

But that, she noted, could change: “As that science evolves, we will look at whether we need

to update our definition of ‘fully vaccinated.’”

Still, the Democratic governors of Connecticut and New Mexico are sending a different signal in their states, as are some countries — such as Israel, which arguably has been the most aggressive nation in its approach. Some scientists point out that many vaccines involve three doses over six months for robust long-term protection, such as the shot against hepatitis. So “fully vaccinated” may need to include shot No. 3 to be considered a full course.

“In my view, if you were vaccinated more than six months ago, you’re not fully vaccinated,” Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont said Nov. 18 during a press briefing. He was encouraging everyone to get boosted at that time, even before the federal government authorized extra shots for everyone.

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham had a similar response in mid-November, saying she defined “fully vaccinated” as receiving three shots of the mRNA type. She also opened up booster eligibility to all of her state residents before the CDC and Food and Drug Administration did.

What do the varying views on the evolving science mean for vaccine requirements imposed on travelers, or by schools or workplaces?

And what about businesses that have required

patrons to provide proof of vaccination?

Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania, said the CDC’s stronger recommendation for everyone to get boosted signals to him that a booster is now part of the vaccine regimen. Yet Offit, who is also a member of the FDA’s vaccine advisory committee, wrote a joint op-ed this week in which he and two other scientists argued that boosters were not yet needed for everyone and that healthy young people should wait to see whether an omicronspecific booster might be needed.

“I think when the CDC said they are recommending a third dose, they just made the statement that this is a three-dose vaccine series,” Offit told KHN. “And, frankly, I think it’s going to throw a wrench into mandates.”

Yet to be determined is whether restaurants or other places of business will look more closely at vaccine cards for the booster.

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, said it’s too early to say. “For now, businesses should stay focused on current guidelines,” he said.

Dr. Marc Siegel, an associate professor of medicine at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, said the question of whether you are fully vaccinated with just

two doses or need a booster is a question of semantics. COVID immunity level is the more important issue.

Siegel said he thinks more suitable terminology would be to call someone “appropriately” or “adequately” vaccinated against COVID rather than “fully” vaccinated, since it’s possible that more boosters could be needed in the future — making “full vaccination” a moving target.

But, as with so many aspects of the pandemic, ambiguity prevails — both in federal guidance on the definition of “fully vaccinated” and in entrance policies, which vary by state, school and business.

Right now, businesses don’t appear to be checking for boosters, but that could change.

So, it may be wise to first check the requirements — lest patrons present a two-shot vaccine passport, only to be turned away as inadequately protected. (Victoria Knight/Kaiser Health News) This story was produced by KHN (Kaiser Health News), a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation. n

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Dateline PhiliPPines

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High court ruling on anti-terrorism law: ‘Small, important’ win for ‘defeated’ human rights by

RAILWAY WORKERS. Railway workers cross the corner of España Boulevard corner Antipolo Street, Sampaloc in Manila on Thursday, December 9. The Philippine National Railway (PNR) has been continuously rehabilitating and upgrading its station as new trains from Japan are deployed.

PNA photo by Oliver Marquez

Pope Francis names first Filipino bishop in Japan POPE Francis has appointed the first Filipino bishop in Japan.

The Holy Father on Wednesday, December 8 named Fr. Edgar Gacutan, a missionary priest, as bishop in the Japanese diocese of Sendai.

Prior to his appointment, Gacutan, 57, was serving as parish priest of Matsubara Catholic Church in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo.

Gacutan is from Enrile town in Cagayan province.

He studied Philosophy at St. Louis University in Baguio City from 1981 to 1985 and Theology at Maryhill School of Theology in Manila from 1986 to 1989.

In February 1990, Gacutan was transferred to Japan as a seminary student.

After three years of internship in Japan, Gacutan returned to Manila to complete his theological studies at the same seminary.

Gacutan was ordained priest for the Congregation Immaculati Cordis Mariae (CICM) or the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in 1994.

A month after his ordination, Gacutan was sent back to Japan, where he served as an assistant pastor in Kongo church, Osaka from 1994 to 1997, then joined the team ministry in Osaka for 6 years until 2003.

In 2004, Gacutan was appointed superior of the Japanese CICM Province and served until 2012.

Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku Region and one of Japan’s 15 biggest cities with roughly one million inhabitants.

The bishop-elect is not new to Sendai. From 2014 to 2017, he was assigned to the area and worked for the victims of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. (By William Depasupil/ ManilaTimes.net) n

BSP sees 7% GDP growth in Q4 by

Mayvelin U. Caraballo Inquirer.net

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) forecasts the Philippine economy to grow by 7% this fourth quarter, which will support the full-year expansion to surpass the government’s target.

“Our revised forecast for this

year is 4-5%. I think it would be more likely that it will be more than 5$ his year, because right now, the year-to-date average is 4.9%. So it stands to reason that the fourth quarter will be higher than maybe around at least 7%,” BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno announced in a briefing on Thursday, December 9.

His announcement came after

the central bank released the highlights of its Monetary Board meeting on November 18, in which the monetary authorities said that mobility indicators have been trending upward in recent months as the national government implemented the Alert Levels System, which allowed for a more granular approach to lockdowns. n

Kristine Joy Patag Philstar.com

MANILA — The long, anxious wait of 37 groups of petitioners assailing the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 ended with a “small win,” as the Supreme Court struck down a dangerous qualifier on protests and advocacy work but they vowed: The bigger fight for human rights continues.

The SC voted 12-3 to declare as unconstitutional the qualifier to the proviso in Section 4 of the Republic Act 11479, that read “which are not intended to cause death or serious physical harm to a person, to endanger a person’s life, or to create a serious risk to public safety” for being “overbroad and violative of freedom of expression.”

The qualifier was attached to exception that “terrorism as defined in this section shall not include advocacy, protest, dissent, stoppage of work, industrial or mass action, and other similar exercises of civil and political rights.”

Rep. Edcel Lagman (Albay), one of the oralists, welcomed the SC move which he said “corrects the erroneous and dangerous view of the law’s proponents that equate activism with terrorism.”

The move of the SC may ease the fears of some of the petitioners, including groups that mount protests and rallies, who raised that the wording of the assailed section is vague and gives authorities, whose track record does not inspire confidence, unbridled discretion on how to entertain it.

For the Free Legal Assistance Group, the SC vote on part of Section 4, is an “important win for the protection of civil liberties.”

“The vote 12-3, as contained in the Court’s advisory, sustains FLAG’s position on this issue and affirms the inherent danger posed to civil liberties by the language of the qualifier to the

proviso,” they added. publication and read the Court rules activism is not decision and the separate terrorism u PAGE 7 BAYAN Secretary General NOTICE TO BIDDERS Renato Reyes said in a statement: “Our main win from NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN the SC ruling on the terror law that the City of San Diego (City) is that activism is not terrorism. is seeking to receive Electronic This is a partial victory for Bids for the below named Public petitioners as protests and Works project. advocacy are not acts of terror.” The solicitation, including plans The National Union Peoples’ and specifications, may be of Lawyers, counsel to obtained from the City’s website at: https://www.sandiego.gov/ petitioners and to many activists cip/bidopps haled to court, said the SC’s Contractors intending to submit move was an assurance on the a Bid must be prequalified. exercise of civil and political Please refer to the solicitation for rights. It “[sustains] our position instructions. that activism and advocacy are Project Name: Clay Avenue Mini legitimate activities and sacred Park rights of the people and should Project Number: K-22-1854not be considered as terrorism DBB-3-B Estimated Value: at all,” they added. $825,900.00 Lawyer Tony La Viña, SOQ Due Date: 02/01/2022, at counsel for Indigenous Peoples 2:00 P.M. petitioners, also counted the SC License Requirement: A. ruling as a “small but important It is the policy of the City of victory in a big defeat for human San Diego to encourage equal opportunity in its Construction rights.”

“The declaration of and Consultant contracts. Bids unconstitutionality of the or proposals from local firms, provision in Section 4—which small, minority-owned, disabled, veteran-owned, and womendefined terrorism as including owned businesses are strongly constitutionally protected encouraged. Contractors are acts when it leads to certain encouraged to subcontract outcomes—is a big victory for with and/or participate in joint the petitioners. But it is a small ventures with these firms. victory in what is still a big The City is committed to defeat for human rights,” he equal opportunity and will not added. discriminate with regard to Large part of the law still race, religion, color, ancestry, intact age, gender, disability, medical Aside from declaring part of condition or place of birth; and Section 4 as unconstitutional, the will not do business with any firm SC also voted 9-6 that allowing that discriminates on any basis. the Anti-Terrorism Council to Bids shall be received no later adopt requests for designation than the date and time noted by other jurisdictions or above at: supranational jurisdictions is City of San Diego’s Electronic unconstitutional, the second Biding Site PlanetBids at: method of designation under h t t p s : / / w w w . p l a n e t b i d s . com/portal/portal. the law. cfm?CompanyID=17950 The third item on the advisory Claudia C. Abarca, Director meanwhile read: “On the basis Purchasing & Contracting of the current petitions, all the Department other challenged petitions of R.A December 10, 2021 11479 are not unconstitutional.” 12/10/21 It also advised the parties CNS-3535009# and the public to “await the ASIAN JOURNAL

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DECEMBER 10-16, 2021 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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OpiniOn

Corruption and the pandemic

Features

A RECENT forum highlighted how corruption is exacerbating the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The problem has also been tackled by the World Justice Project. In a report earlier this year, the WPJ observed that the rapid mobilization of massive resources to respond to the public health crisis, combined with the suspension of corruption prevention and enforcement mechanisms during an emergency, have opened vast opportunities for graft.

Apart from eroding public trust in the government – as we are now seeing amid the multibillion-peso Pharmally Pharmaceutical scandal – corruption leads to waste of supplies and resources and compromises the pandemic response, the WPJ pointed out.

It stressed that in the pandemic response, speed need not come at the expense of public accountability. The WPJ suggests that easing public procurement mechanisms must be limited to what is necessary to meet immediate needs. Procurements must always be subject to official audit and vetting of suppliers for competence and potential conflict of interest.

To promote transparency in pandemic procurements, the WPJ recommends that all government contracts forged under special emergency procedures should be published for open scrutiny.

In the Philippines, people have faced the spectacle of suppliers preferring to languish in the

overcrowded Pasay City jail rather than submit official records of their pandemic supply deliveries to the government.

Similar approaches should be applied to the distribution of pandemic emergency stimulus packages and aid programs for households and businesses, according to the WPJ. Best practices and guidance in this area have been laid out by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, based on standards set in the UN Convention Against Corruption.

From the start of the pandemic last year, a Europol bulletin had already warned about the risks of fraud, cybercrime, criminal profiteering and money laundering as countries scramble to source badly needed medical supplies. Corruption, however, need not be inevitable, according to the WPJ; it is possible to develop strong integrity cultures as well as implement global norms against corruption in the course of the long-term pandemic recovery. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Omicron variant: mRNA vaccine technology has the edge

Babe’s Eye View BaBe Romualdez UNDOUBTEDLY, the new coronavirus Omicron variant has caused widespread concern because it shows multiple mutations, with early evidence indicating that it may have increased transmissibility compared to the Delta variant. But there is still a lot to be scientifically discovered and known about this new variant, and scientists here in the United States are working 24/7 to get the right answers. We were told by the White House that we should know within the next 10 days the results regarding its virality, and whether it can evade vaccines and cause severe illness.

The World Health Organization has confirmed Omicron infections in 23 countries that include the United States, with border closures once again imposed to prevent community transmission. But as President Biden had stressed, this should not be a cause for panic. While it’s possible that Omicron may have “immune escape” potential or the capacity to evade immunity from prior infection – scientists believe vaccines still continue to provide “a good degree of protection” and will at least slow down the spread of the variant and prevent severe illness.

According to Professor Salim Abdool Karim, a South African epidemiologist who wrote the article “Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant: a new chapter in the COVID-19 pandemic” published

in The Lancet, while there is very early evidence of increased transmissibility and reinfection among those who have been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19, people should not “make too much of the early data.”

In our regular interactions with Moderna and Pfizer – both of which have developed COVID-19 vaccines using the mRNA (messenger RNA) technology – it is apparent that both companies have been very proactive, reviewing and assessing the efficacy of their vaccines and developing booster shots that would target mutations from new variants such as Omicron.

There is no question that the COVID-19 pandemic has shown the superiority of mRNA technology through the COVID-19 vaccines that have proven to be the most effective, providing very high levels of protection.

Scientists such as Yale University professor of immunology, epidemiology and molecular, cellular and developmental biology Akiko Iwasaki point to the relative ease and speed with which companies can develop “very, very good vaccines” using mRNA technology as it only took Moderna several weeks to develop its COVID-19 vaccine and make it ready for testing and clinical trials, compared to traditional approaches that take so much longer for vaccines to be developed.

The beauty of mRNA technology, many scientists all over the world agree, is that the time needed to create boosters that would target specific variants is shortened, because existing vac-

cines can be tweaked or adjusted to produce variant-specific shots within several weeks. It’s pretty much like upgrading cellphones or smart gadgets though software downloads to make them responsive to the changing needs of users. Many agree – mRNA technology is the solution to lead the world out of this pandemic.

BioNTech CEO Ugur Sahin, whose company developed the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine in partnership with Pfizer, said they are working on an upgraded version of their current vaccine quickly in response to Omicron, and is confident that people will still have substantial protection against severe disease caused by the new variant. “The only thing that worries me at the moment is the fact that there are people who have not been vaccinated at all,” Sahin said.

Pfizer and BioNTech have assured that actions have been taken “months ago to be able to adapt the mRNA vaccine within six weeks and ship initial batches within 100 days in the event of an escape variant.”

Moderna, on the other hand, said their booster shot will be ready by March next year. Aside from an Omicron-specific booster candidate, the company is also working on “multi-valent” booster candidates to anticipate mutations from the Omicron variant as well as the Beta and Delta strains. The company is also reviewing the efficacy of 100 micrograms of vaccine as a booster for the Omicron variant as opposed to the current booster of 50 micrograms. According to the company, they can ad-

Unsplash.com photo by Spencer Davis

vance the booster candidates to clinical testing within 60 to 90 days.

The real good news is coming from Pfizer. The company submitted its application this month to the FDA to authorize their pill, Paxlovid, for emergency use. The company says the pill reduces serious illness, hospitalization and death by 89 percent.

Pfizer is very confident that this oral drug can work for all known mutations including Omicron, and is continuously working on other drugs just in case there is resistance to the drug down the line. Psychologically for all of us,

this is absolutely good news.

What is important, however, is that this new variant still underscores the need for vaccination to protect people from severe illness and even death, and at the same time, lessen the chances of the coronavirus to spread and mutate into more virulent and threatening variants. The ramping up of our vaccination rollout in the Philippines, registering one of the highest single-day jabs worldwide with over 2.7 million people vaccinated last Nov. 29, is wonderful news, too.

The best tool to fight COVID-19 is still the vaccines, and those

who have been vaccinated and had their booster shots are better poised to get back to life that is as close to “normal” as we can get prior to the pandemic. Those who continue to refuse getting vaccinated are practically playing Russian roulette – endangering other people’s lives, including themselves. (Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com

Educated by the voters

No Free Lunch Cielito F. HaBito I ALWAYS feel discomfort when I hear talk about the need for “voter education,” usually in the context of lamenting the nature of the candidates who tend to get the strongest support from the Filipino voting public. We hear terms like “bobotante” and “tangang masa” in such conversations, especially now as we again prepare to choose new leaders in 2022.

There’s no denying that we’ve seen elected into office too many people with reputations for vote buying, thievery, plunder, immorality, and even murder; show business or sports personalities and other public celebrities with

no known qualifications for governance; and even returning officials with past records of incompetence and nonperformance.

A quote attributed to former Singapore leader Lee Kuan Yew made the rounds in social media years ago, where he supposedly called Filipinos “stupid” for perennially voting bad leaders into office.

Calls for “voter education” strike me as presumptuous, even bordering on arrogance. To me, the Filipinos’ supposed lack of political maturity reflects a failure in the system that ultimately points the finger back at society’s economic and/or intellectual elite. I’m not the first to point out that those who want voters to be “educated” could well be the ones needing to be educated by those they want “educated.”

What has been missing perhaps

is for the country’s elite and even middle class to listen more and engage more with the so-called “bobotante,” whom we have collectively failed and neglected. After all, how they cast their votes would have a legitimate motivation behind it.

For some, it is persistent poverty that leads them to keep looking for leaders who can promise immediate relief—including wads of cash and promises of more to come. That is one of the strong attractions of the candidate with whom many seem to have fallen for the yarn that once elected, he will give away the immense riches their family amassed while in power.

It is said that many in our elite actually prefer to perpetuate widespread poverty in our midst, appalling as that may sound, because it is through the patronage

relationships it fosters by which they maintain their grip on power.

For thinking voters with a longer perspective, the motivation could be a long-simmering dissatisfaction with the existing order, and anyone who sounds like he/she can deliver drastic change would attract their support. Seeing little improvement in their lives across various presidencies, it’s natural for common people to embrace leaders who break out of the familiar mold. But this one is not just about poor and less educated voters wanting to change the power balance in our society, in the hope of better lives for themselves. Let’s not forget that the current leader many of us love to hate found his strongest support base from the ABC classes of voters and not the bottom ones, seduced by the promise of

change, not knowing that it was going to happen in the wrong direction.

“What we see during elections,” a writer once put it, “is an accumulation of the collective resentment, frustration, and even anger of many Filipinos from past years or even decades.” It stems from the failure of society’s political and economic elite to sufficiently uplift the lives of the wide majority left farther behind as they uplifted their own.

And as has now emerged, our greatest failure could have well been in education in general, and with all the cross-country evidence at hand, there is no denying this. The fact that our country has found itself at the bottom of the list of countries ranked in the Programme for International Student Assessment—worst in reading and second to worst (to

the Dominican Republic) in math and science—speaks for itself.

Our education failure has been a huge impediment to achieving a progressive and inclusive economy and building a strong nation.

Unless we change this fast, we are condemned to more of the same for time to come.

All told, the persistent call to “educate” voters is probably misplaced. Maybe we need to be “educated” by them first, to move us all to take a direct role in shaping a better future for the nation, and not count on one leader to do it. (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.

*** cielito.habito@gmail.com

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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PH borrowed $23.4-B for COVID-19 response by

Mayvelin U. Caraballo Inquirer.net

FINANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said on Wednesday, December 8 that the Philippines has so far borrowed a total of $23.4 billion (P1.17 trillion) from international sources to fund its COVID-19 pandemic response.

“From March 16, 2020 to Dec. 7, 2021, the government has secured a total of $23.4 billion in COVID-19-related external financing,” Dominguez said during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum.

He said $21 billion will be used for general budget assistance to compensate for the loss in government collections while $2.4 billion will be allocated for

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III

COVID-19 response and recovery projects, including vaccine procurement.

He reported that $19.8 billion had been disbursed to bridge the budget gap since March of last year.

Dominguez said that roughly $1.2 billion of the $2.4 billion grant has been released to purchase laboratory equipment, medical supplies and vaccines, as well as support interventions to mitigate the pandemic’s impact on low-income areas.

Disbursements were implemented by the relevant agencies involved in pandemic response.

“So, bulk of the funding for the vaccines has been actually used to buy the vaccines, and the way we financed that is we borrowed the money from the ADB (Asian

ManilaTimes.net file photo

Development Bank), AIIB (Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank) and World Bank,” Dominguez said.

He explained the government chose to finance vaccine procurement through multilateral institutions to ensure that there would be no overpricing.

“You know, a World Bank, AIIB and ADB will not finance anything that smells of overpricing and believe me, they see the prices around the world, they know the prices in other countries, which we do not know, they definitely will not lend us any money if they suspect that there is any hint of corruption,” he added.

Dominguez explained that the government’s external gross borrowings increased to P518.7 billion because of overseas financing that includes funds raised through global bond offerings.

Adding the P2.2 trillion from domestic sources, he said the total loan accumulated by the government in the first 10 months of 2021 amounted to P2.7 trillion.

“Rest assured this administration will make sure to help the next president and the next generations address the fiscal and economic risks brought about by the pandemic. In fact, the Department of Finance is now preparing our transition plan and among the recommendations will be a roadmap to fiscal consolidation,” he said. n

High court ruling on anti-terrorism...

PAGE 5 opinions for the explanation of votes.”

Lawyer Theodore Te, also counsel to petitioners, told reporters that the basis for the third item on the advisory remains unclear.

Stressing that it is still largely speculation, he said the court may have ruled based on whether facial challenge—which petitioners mounted—is applicable to other provisions of the law.

But as it is, a large part of the feared antiterrorism law still stands.

The heavily challenged power of the AntiTerrorism Council to designate individuals and groups as terrorists upon finding of probable cause, which will trigger the freeze of subject’s assets, and the section of prolonged detention of up to 24 days has been retained.

BAYAN’s Reyes pointed out: “[T]he dangerous provisions of the terror law remain and can still be abused. Other dangerous provisions on designations, proscription, warrantless arrests and prolonged detention remain and must be challenged.”

Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay, meanwhile said that the SC’s move to “adopt repressive provisions… will only set to worsen the already dismal human rights situation in the country.”

House Deputy Minority Leader Carlos Zarate (Bayan Muna partylist) said the SC’s affirmation of “many anti-people provisions” of the law “may still give the president, especially now President Duterte, a booster shot for further attacking his critics and the opposition.”

Petitioners swore that they will continue to fight these provisions that they assert remain dangerous for the people’s rights.

La Viña said: “The fight including the motions for reconsideration—must now focus on the provisions that affect due process and other rights of accused: arrest, detention, designation

by Anti-Terror Council, freezing of funds.”

NUPL president Edre Olalia vowed: “We will certainly regroup and close ranks and file a motion for reconsideration. We will not allow the dying of the flickering light of our basic rights.” n

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by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 10/15/2020.

Signature Jocelyn Tence.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/11/2021.

AJ 826 11/26, 12/03, 12/10, 12/17/2021.

AJSD 826

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9024795

LEGAL SERVICES

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9025950

Happy Love Desserts, ATBP. located at 1544 Cricket Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91915.

Registrant: Trevilla, LLC, 1065 Surrey Drive, 1544 Cricket Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91915.

This business is conducted

by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 11/15/2021.

Signature Grace Trevilla.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/20/2021.

AJ 831 11/26, 12/03, 12/10, and 12/17/2021.

AJSD 831

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9025720

Kingdom Apparel located at 2140 Hoover Ave., Suite 212, National City, CA 91950.

Registrant: Miguel Angel Covarrubias, 2140 Hoover Ave., Suite 212, National City, CA 91950.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Miguel Angel Covarrubias.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/05/2021.

AJ 827 11/19, 11/26, 12/03, and 12/10/2021.

a. CUBS Express located at 1740 Robinson Avenue #13, San Diego, CA 92103. b. Mochii Bear located at 1740 Robinson Avenue #13, San Diego, CA 92103.

Registrant: CUBS Express LLC, located at 1740 Robinson Avenue #13, San Diego, CA 92103.

This business is conducted

by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 11/05/2015.

Signature Well Lopez Aquino JR. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/18/2021.

AJ 833 12/03, 12/10, 12/17, and 12/24/2021.

AJSD 833

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9023854

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9026120

AJSD 827

a. Segue Body Wraps located at 3594 Fifth Ave., San Diego, CA 92103. b. RCL & Co. located at 3594 Fifth Ave., San Diego, CA 92103.

Registrant: Rachel Lam Wong, 5378 Bothe Ave., San Diego, CA 92122.

This business is conducted

by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 10/22/2012.

Signature Rachel Lam Wong.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 10/22/2021.

AJ 828 11/19, 11/26, 12/03, and 12/10/2021.

AJSD 828

SCS Transportation Services located at 4716 Market St., San Diego, CA 92102.

Registrant: a. Gina L Phraphon, 218 Henson St., San Diego, CA 92114. b. Satsady Sovidaray, 218 Henson St., San Diego, CA 92114.

This business is conducted

by Married Couple.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Satsady Sovidaray.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/23/2021.

AJ 834 12/03, 12/10, 12/17, and 12/24/2021.

AJSD 834

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9025545

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9019446

Polar Salts located at 7933 Silverton Ave., Suite 716, San Diego, CA 92126.

Registrant: Dean Meltz, 7933 Silverton Ave., Suite 716, San Diego, CA 92126.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Dean Meltz.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/16/2021.

AJ 829 11/26, 12/03, 12/10, and 12/17/2021.

AJSD 829

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

Laus’ Deo Hair and Nail Salon located at 1251 Third Ave., Suite 204, Chula Vista, CA 91911.

Registrant: Nora Liliana Burgoin, 1804 Canal St., San Diego, CA 92154.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Nora Liliana Burgoin.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/29/2021.

AJ 835 12/03, 12/10, 12/17, and 12/24/2021.

AJSD 835

CASE NUMBER: 37-2021-00049709-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Zamary Noorzay and Rubina Noorzay on behalf of minor children filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Fnu Farhad to Farhad Noorzay b. Fnu Gulsanga AKA San Ga to Gul Sanga Noorzay c. Fnu Zarsanga to Zar Sanga Noorzay d. Fnu Fawad to Fawad Noorzay THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 01/06/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county.

Asian Journal: NOV. 24, 2021 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Lorna A. Alksne Judge of the Superior Court AJ 832 12/03, 12/10, 12/17, and 12/24/2021 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD 832

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9025610

North County Home Loans located at 3690 Highland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008.

Registrant: Gary Kawano, 3690 Highland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Gary Kawano.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/17/2021.

AJ 830 11/26, 12/03, 12/10, and 12/17/2021.

AJSD 830

LEGAL SERVICES

CASE NUMBER: 37-2021-00049912-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Herlinda Guadalupe Ybanez AKA Natalie Soto filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Herlinda Guadalupe Ybanez AKA Natalie Soto to Natalie Lynda Soto THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 01/11/2022 Tine: 8:30 AM Dept. C-61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: NOV. 29, 2021 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Lorna A. Alksne Judge of the Superior Court AJ 836 12/03, 12/10, 12/17, and 12/24/2021.

ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD 836

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9025850

The Golden Rose located at 895 Palomar St., Suite A1, Chula Vista, CA 91911.

Registrant: Rosa A. Diaz, 895 Palomar St., Suite A1, Chula Vista, CA 91911.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 11/19/2021.

Signature Rosa A. Diaz.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/19/2021.

AJ 837 12/03, 12/10, 12/17, and 12/24/2021.

AJSD 837

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9026330

JTND - Jasmine Thien Nga Dinh located at 9341 Ruffin Court, San Diego, CA 92123.

Registrant: Tu Dinh, 2338 Blackton Drive, San Diego, CA 92105.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Tu Dinh.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/29/2021.

AJ 838 12/03, 12/10, 12/17, 12/24/2021.

AJSD 838

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9025614

HugNugs located at 525 Hibiscus Court, Chula Vista, CA 91911.

Registrant: Allana Reyes, 731 K Avenue, National City, CA 91911.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 11/17/2021.

Signature Allana Reyes.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on11/17/2021.

AJ 839 12/03, 12/10, 12/17, and 12/24/2021.

AJSD 839

EMPLOYMENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9026554

a. Finch And Fox located at 1020 S. Ditmar, Oceanside, CA 92054. b. Reid Phelps located at 1020 S. Ditmar, Oceanside, CA 92054. c. Wild Wanderings located at 1020 S. Ditmar, Oceanside, CA 92054.

Registrant: Finch And Fox LLC, 1020 S. Ditmar, Oceanside, CA 92054.

This business is conducted

by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 05/01/2013.

Signature Ashley Ecker Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/01/2021.

AJ 840 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, and 12/31/2021.

AJSD 840

SAN DIEGO

(818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 10-16, 2021

JOURNAL

9

9

D EC E M B E R 1 0, 2 0 2 1

Acting tips Angelina gets Abby on rekindled romance with Jomari: ‘This is it for me!’ from mom Sunshine

by Alex

by nAthAlie

tomAdA Philstar.com

BrosAs

Inquirer.net

ANGELINA Cruz depends on her mom, veteran actress Sunshine Cruz, for advice, and all the more now that Angelina is acting in her first movie, “Love Is Color Blind.”

One of the basic tips she got from her mom is to study the script and “follow your lines.”

“But most importantly, to really know your character, to really know the idea of everything because that really helps. That’s what she told me,” Angelina shared during the online press conference for the movie, last Friday, Dec. 3.

A little more help came when she sought for her mom’s advice on how to pronounce some words that are quite strange to her.

“Actually, even during lock-in, if there are lines na hindi ko ma-pronounce well (that I can’t pronounce well), I would ask her for voice memos. ‘Mom, how do you say this well?’ She would help me naman,” Angelina said.

She is also grateful to have been cast as Iris for the movie which will launch the Donny Pangilinan-Belle Mariano love team.

“I feel like the viewers will find her very interesting. She is an interesting character. She is confident, she’s smart,” Angelina described Iris.

Angelina is also a singer and her transition from being a singer to an actress has been challenging.

Angelina Cruz

Photo from Instagram/@angelinaisabele

“My last project is actually a sitcom so very light lang po siya and very different from filming a movie because it is very detailed. Kaya po I have to really learn. I have to adapt. They were able to guide me naman po when it comes to emotions and to really become my character,” she said. n

Who is Angelica when no one is watching?

By Boy

ABundA Philstar.com

I HAD an interesting conversation with Angelica Panganiban on Who Are You When No One Is Watching on The Boy Abunda Talk Channel on YouTube and on my podcast.

She looked back and talked about her previous acting projects and her memorable experiences with the directors she worked with. Throughout the years, she has proven her versatility by portraying various roles in teleseryes and movies.

Angelica, or Angge as she

is fondly called, started in showbiz as a child actress. “I remember the first time I saw myself on television. I was with my playmates from Balut, Tondo. We were in the living room and we were all amazed.

Bakit nandito ako at nasa TV din ako? I could not understand and explain,” she recalled. Angge had several projects but she didn’t realize at that point that she was a talented artist. “Hindi po. Feeling ko nakakaiyak lang ako kasi bata ako. Mabilis talaga akong umiyak.”

Some people describe her acting style as “slow burn.” She

explained, “I first heard it from direk Mae (Cruz-Alviar). She told me, ‘Diesel ka noh?’ Then I asked, ‘Anong meaning noon?’

She said, ‘Matagal kang uminit pero pag uminit ka na, suwabe ka. Parang ang sarap mong i-drive.’ Oo, nga naman because when you give me a character, di ako iyong alam na alam ko na ito. It’s trial and error, then ‘pag nakuha ko na, non-stop, talagang dire-diretso talaga ako.”

Angge shared about her process as an actor. “It’s experimental. Walang tamang timpla. There’s no right process.

u PAGE 10

ABBY Viduya didn’t expect to reconnect and rekindle her romance with teenage sweetheart Jomari Yllana.

“We were already happy to be in each other’s lives as friends.

We didn’t expect it but since this happened, it has been so good so far,” the actress recently told The Star in an exclusive phone interview.

Abby recalled that she and the actor, both 45 now, became each other’s first romantic relationship at the age of 15. “He was my first love, first boyfriend, first kiss, first of everything.”

They were a couple for less than a year after working together in the movie Gwapings, the launching movie of Jomari with the ‘90s boy group Gwapings. Abby, who later on became the sexy star with the screen name Priscilla Almeda, was introduced in the same movie.

They broke up mainly because they were too young. “Of course, we went our separate ways, we led our own lives and had children of our own.”

In the early 2000s, Abby suddenly quit showbiz to return to Canada where she grew up.

“Then, there was a time na di naman constant, but may communication kami (with Jomari). This was, I think, in 2015, and every now and then, we would kumusta each other.

“And then, it just so happened there came a time na we were both single and ayun, nag-start dun. I was still in Canada at that time. Kwento-kwentuhan kami and then we decided na when I’d come back here, kita kami and there. We just hit it off. It’s like picking up where we left off.”

After coming back to the

Abby and Jomari Yllana recently celebrated their second anniversary as a couple.

Philstar.com photo

Philippines late 2019, she could say that everything just fell into place with Jomari. “When I came back, it just made sense at a certain age di na kailangan ng ligawan, di ba? When I came back here, I was 43, he was also 43,” she shared.

“Nung bata kami, magkasundo na magkasundo kami… How we were when we were young, ganun pa rin eh, but on a different level. I mean, makulit pa rin kami to each other, but now it’s just different because we’re both mature na, marami kaming pinagdaanan pareho sa buhay. We make it a point na walang bad vibes sa relationship. But, of course, that can’t be avoided but we handle things together, which is really nice.”

She said another nice thing about their relationship is how Jomari makes her feel secure. “All of my doubts and insecurities, and when I’m feeling down, si Jom has a way of making me feel so happy and secure.”

The pandemic lockdowns also

“opened up our eyes to each other.”

“It was stressful, especially the first months, kasi hindi makalabas. But we made the most out of it. We cook for each other, I love to cook, Jom cooks dishes for me, too, yung mga recipes ng mom niya. There was a time, nakakatakot lumabas, di ba? What we would do was just drive around. Happiness na yung makita ang buildings in Makati,” she said, explaining that when she arrived here in October 2019 “sabak na kaagad ako sa work for three months” for FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano so she never got to see what’s new in Metro Manila.

The pandemic proved extra challenging when she had a gallbladder removal surgery early this year. “But I was lucky because I had Jom taking care of me. We’re just always together.

He really takes care of me.”

They marked their second anniversary as a couple last Oct. 11. Abby vowed to support Jomari on the campaign trail

u PAGE 10

10

DECEMBER 10-16, 2021 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

Abby on rekindled romance...

PAGE 9 for his third and last term as Parañaque City councilor. Jomari has been calling Abby his “lucky charm” and posting their photos together with the hashtag #firstandlast.

She hopes the same. “Hopefully, this is it. I think naman, this is really it for me.”

Meanwhile, Abby, whose career is co-managed by veteran showbiz scribe Nestor Cuartero and Viva Artists Agency, has embraced her acting comeback. She just finished the lock-in taping for the 2022 GMA series, Lolong. She’s also starring in a still-untitled Vivamax film.

When asked why at the height of her career two decades ago she left just like that, Abby disclosed, “I think at that time, I could use the word, it was too toxic. Schedules were hectic and I just wanted to live a normal life where you could go out and just be you. You know, not under the limelight?

“It was different back then, the years 2000, 2001.

At that time, I was doing sexy movies, although there were plans to shift me to dramatic roles na.

But I shot a movie in New York (Lav Diaz’s Batang West Side) and it was such a nice feeling to be able to go out without anyone recognizing me.”

Her last film before dropping out of the public eye was Syota ng Bayan with Eddie Garcia and Tonton Gutierrez. “No regrets. Maybe, my only regret is how I handled turning back. Kasi at that time, if I decided to do something, I’ll just do it without thinking of the consequences of the work that I left behind. During that time, marami akong nabitin na projects and I just decided all of a sudden, ‘That’s it, ayoko na, I wanna go.’ So, yeah, my only regret was how I handled that.”

Going home to Canada was also partly due to her desire to get to know her biological mom and siblings. She learned she was adopted as a baby when she was 16.

“That time was a really dark time for me,” Abby shared. “Cast all of that, I got to meet my biological family in Canada, too. Di ba, I was raised in Vancouver? It turned out that my biological

mother moved to Edmonton to raise a new family.

“When I looked for them, nahanap ko naman yung mom ko. My biological father naman was here in the Philippines, whom I had known. But my biological mom, that’s the time I got to know her and my siblings from her. I became close to them… even my lola there, my aunt and uncle.

There was a time, when I found out that I was adopted, galit ako sa mundo. And then, for me, to be able to heal from that, I had to forgive and let go. That’s what I did.”

She took up vocational courses and ended up doing accounting and administrative work in Canada. “Sometimes, I’d miss showbiz, I’d miss my friends here because I was away from showbiz for 16 years. I told myself, OK, I left that life behind, there’s no going back, right? But of course, when there’s something to come back to, it’s different. When your heart gets called to a different direction at a certain age, you follow it eh. You need to live your life… for yourself, and no regrets, di ba?”

Meanwhile, The STAR asked Abby for her thoughts on what she has also observed as the resurgence of sexy films. During her heyday as Priscilla Almeda, she felt it was more “taboo” and a tougher time to be in, as she recalled indecent proposals and rude comments said to her in public. She believes people are more open now.

Abby said of the new gen of sexy stars: “They shouldn’t think bad about what they’re doing.

Everything that’s given to them, it’s just a role, it’s not who they really are. That’s what I’ve been trying to say in the past. Di ba kasi from sweet roles, naging sexy roles? Iba kasi in the Philippines, if they say sexy, sexy star, ganun na ang dating. But that’s not who they are eh. They’re just portraying a role, they’re portraying an image. They should own up to it. I mean, if they’re classified as a sexy star now, it’s OK. Kasi sexy talaga sila. There comes a time, mawawala din (laughs). They’re young and sexy. They should enjoy this stage in their lives.” n

Who is Angelica when no one is...

PAGE 9 You have to include the people who work with you like the different directors and artists. You need to be sensitive sa kung anong ibinibigay sa iyo ng katrabaho mo. Then doon tayo maglalaro, doon tayo sasayaw. Ito iyong beat mo, sige game.”

At the end of our conversation, Angge reveals who she is when no one is watching.

What are you wearing when no one is watching?

“Mahilig ako naka-T-shirt lang, tapos panty.”

What are you eating when no one is watching?

“Peanuts.”

Where are you when no one is watching?

“Bedroom.”

What are you watching when no one is watching?

“Crime.”

When no one is watching what makes you cry and laugh?

“K-drama.”

What makes you laugh?

“Myself.”

Who are you when no one is watching?

“Angge. What you see is what you get.” n

Angelica Panganiban

Photo from Instagram/@iamangelicap

Cruelty to our planet Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS IT does not take an Einstein to understand that clean air, pure water, and unpolluted environment are conducive to health and longevity. In certain parts of the world, like in the serene Okinawa to the verdant valleys of Ecuador to the unspoiled hills of the Himalayas, a significant number of people normally live to a hundred. A common denominator among these centenarians is an environment that is nature’s best, untainted by the toxic byproducts of the advances in technology in this modern world of ours.

Today, man, in most parts of the earth, especially in well-developed cities, is no longer living in harmony with nature. He has been hostile to his environment, gradually killing it with poisonous gases and deadly chemicals from our factories and toxic smoke from our vehicles that pollute the air and deplete the ozone layer which shields and protects us from dangerous solar radiation. Irresponsible massive deforestation, obviously for financial gains and disregarding the law of nature, has caused widespread flooding and mudslides that kill thousands every year. Individually, we use countless noxious chemicals at home for cleaning which eventually end up in rivers and oceans that destroy bodies of water and their priceless inhabitants and contaminate our drinking water. And there are other human activities, some criminal like arson-causing forest fires, that negatively alter the “homeostasis” in our world, as well as the equilibrium in our environment and in our own selves.

These unwise and negligent human behaviors against Planet Earth and Mother Nature for centuries have boomeranged, causing untold calamities worldwide in the form of human diseases and destruction of our physical milieu, not to mention their immeasurable adverse effects on the human psyche around the globe. Our immune system as a species, for one, has been negatively impacted. Various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, diseases of the heart, lungs, and various other organs, and some unexplained ailments, have increased, especially in the last century or so. Our misadventures are now haunting us and our children.

While the governments of the world are trying to remedy this dire global “climate change,” it

behooves us, earthlings, to do our daily share in showing more respect and love for our environment. After all, Planet Earth is the only home we’ve got today.

And destroying it is like helping detonate a bomb on board a plane we are in.

Organic is healthier Most of the produce and products on the market today are “contaminated” with some type of chemicals used in fertilizing them, protecting them, making them more appealing, preserving them, or enriching them.

Let’s opt for organic foods, vegetables, meat products, fruits, etc. that are raised and produced without pesticides, herbicides, hormones, antibiotics, preservatives and coloring. We must also avoid processed foods, which increase our risk for cancer.

Versatile plastic wares abound in the world, many of them releasing vinyl chloride and other toxic gases, or phthalates, which are cancer and birth defect-causing agents, and which are also harmful to the lungs and liver. Surprisingly, unbeknownst to most of us, some plastics are also used in chewing gum, cosmetics, carpeting, mattresses, toilet paper, sanitary napkins, polyester clothing, and tissue paper. The use of glass containers, natural fiber clothing, personal care-cosmetic products made with natural ingredients, wooden toys for kids, etc. and staying away from aluminum cookware to prevent aluminum poisoning, are the healthier ways to go.

All white paper products are bleached with chemicals that leave behind residues of cancer-causing dioxin, which are likewise found in lunch bags, coffee filters, diapers, paper towels, napkins, tissue, and toilet paper. Dioxin, like other harmful chemicals, enters the soil and eventually contaminates groundwater.

The use of organic household cleaners, otherwise known as “Green Your Clean Routine,” is the safer and healthier alternative. An effective and safer cleanser, for instance, is diluted vinegar for use in the kitchen and bathroom tiles, mirrors, and even in carpets to inhibit mildew and bacteria. For hand sanitizer against viruses, alcohol (must be 75 percent or higher) is effective, but frequent handwashing with soap is still the safest. For COVID-19, social distancing is beneficial, and vaccination is a must to prevent getting infected with this killer virus with its Delta variant, and now, the new South African Omicron strain, which experts are closely monitoring.

Our obligation The corporate world, our community, and we, as individuals, have the moral duty and responsibility as members of society to protect and preserve our plan-

et and Mother Nature for our survival and the survival of our family and all our fellow human beings traveling with us in this journey on Planet Earth. We, as a species, our genus, our race, will only survive if we all endeavor together to save Mother Earth.

We do not have any other option.

If we don’t stop poisoning and destroying our only home where we are all trapped, the end of man is not far behind. I pray that reality catches up with our race sooner than later while there is still time.

The basic principle in all this is for us, the inhabitants of Planet Earth, to be responsible and be good to our environment by not contaminating our natural habitat with poisons in whatever form, and to allow Mother Nature to flourish at its best. We each can start this education, positive awareness, behavioral modification, compassion, and responsible practices in our own homes and community.

The purer the air we breathe in, the cleaner the water we drink, the more unadulterated food we eat, the more robust the ozone layer is, and the healthier our lifestyle is, the more wonderful our world will be, not only for us and our loved ones, but for humankind as a whole and for all the future generations to come.

Before the year 2021 ends, in the midst of this deadly COVID-19 pandemic which has so far killed 5.3 million, let’s be wiser and kinder to ourselves.

Let us protect ourselves and others around us by wearing a mask and doing social distancing in public. More importantly, let us all get vaccinated. More than 4.5 billion people have been safely vaccinated around the world, with more than 230 million of them in the United States. It is really a matter of life and death. *** 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 main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, a Health Advocate, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: philipSchua.com, FUN8888.com, Today, SPSAtoday.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

PH Embassy extends its partnership with FYLPRO, Ayala Foundation

WASHINGTON, DC – Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez recently virtually signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Filipino Young Leader’s Program (FYLPRO) President Louella Rose Cabalona, Ayala Foundation, Inc. (AFI) President Ruel Maranan and Senior Director Joanna Duarte, extending the tripartite partnership to December 31, 2025. The virtual ceremony was also witnessed by representatives of the Philippine Consulates General in the United States, and the Department of Foreign AffairsOffice of American Affairs.

Ambassador Romualdez emphasized the Philippine government’s support, through the Philippine Foreign Service Posts in the United States, to FYLPRO’s vision of “a thriving future for the Filipino people built upon the strength of our Filipino identity, our global community, and our connections with the Philippines.” He also added that the Embassy is proud to see FYLPRO coming to its 10th year.

AFI President Maranan and Senior Director Duarte echoed these sentiments and shared their anticipation for FYLPRO’s future legacy projects and newfound independence.

The MOU signing coincides with the Embassy’s yearlong celebration of the 75th Anniversary of PH-U.S. diplomatic relations and is part of the build-up to FYLPRO’s 10th founding anniversary celebration in 2022.

Embodying the theme of the 75th Anniversary, “#Thriving,” FYLPRO continues to thrive and promote the deep Filipino-American people-topeople ties, especially in youth

u PAGE 11

After the signing of the MOU: (Clockwise, leftmost, top row) Mark Calaguas (FYLPRO), Tyler Dos Santos (FYLPRO), Bryan Ramos (FYLPRO), Jan Paul Ferrer (FYLPRO), Third Secretary Mark Lim (Embassy), Vice President Leezel Tanglao (FYLPRO), President Louella Rose Caballona (FYLPRO), Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez (Embassy), Deputy Chief of Mission Jaime Ramon Ascalon, Jr. (Embassy), Jean Gavina (FYLPRO).

Photos courtesy of PH Embassy

PH Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez (left) and FYLPRO President Louella Rose Cabalona (right) sign the Memorandum of Understanding extending its partnership to December 31, 2025.

(Clockwise, from top left) FYLPRO President Louella Rose Cabalona, AFI Ruel Manantan, AFI Joanna Duarte, and PH Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez hold up their copies of the Memorandum of Understanding that will extend the partnership to December 31, 2025 during the virtual signing ceremony.

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Community

SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 10-16, 2021

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Flu vaccinations urged for City of San Diego receives responses holiday, winter months for redevelopment of Sports Arena site

GIVEN that influenza cases typically rise over the holidays and the winter months, County health officials are encouraging San Diegans to get vaccinated now.

“Indoor holiday celebrations and other gatherings make it easier for influenza to spread,” said Wilma J. Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “The vaccine is the best defense we have against influenza. Get vaccinated now to prevent getting sick and making others ill.”

Dec. 5 through 11 has been designated as National Influenza Vaccination Week, a reminder for San Diegans 6 months and older that it’s not too late to get a flu vaccine.

How to prevent the flu The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year. It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop. The CDC also indicates you can get a flu and COVID-19 vaccination at the same time, including a booster dose. The coronavirus vaccine does not work against influenza and vice versa.

The flu vaccine is especially important for people at higher risk of having serious complications from the virus.

They include: • People with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, and lung disease, even if symptoms are under control • Pregnant women • People aged 65 years and older • People who live with or care for others who are at higher risk.

The influenza vaccine is now available at doctors’ offices and retail pharmacies and is covered by medical insurance. People with no health care coverage can get vaccinated at one of the County’s six public health centers or a local community clinic. To find the nearest location, visit the County’s Flu Vaccine Locations page or call 2-1-1 San Diego.

In addition to getting vaccinated, people should also do the following to avoid getting sick: • Wash hands thoroughly and often • Use hand sanitizers • Stay away from sick people • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth • Clean commonly touched surfaces • If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others.

In 2020, a total of 848 influenza cases were reported in San Diego, including two deaths. In 2019, a total of 108 San Diegans died from influenza and more than 20,700 flu cases were reported.

(Jose Alvarez/County of San Diego Communications Office) n

PH Embassy extends...

PAGE 10 leadership and engagement, upon which the 75 years of PH-U.S. diplomatic relations are strongly built upon.

Prior to the virtual signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding, Ambassador Romualdez received FYLPRO President Louella Rose Cabalona and her executive delegation at the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. A productive discussion was had regarding the future of Filipino-American youth engagement and post COVID collaborations.

FYLPRO was originally initiated by the Philippine

Embassy and the Ayala Foundation, Inc. It remains to be a network of high performing, next-generation leaders who advance the Philippines and the Filipino people through their advocacy and expertise in various industries. They continually expand the pipeline of Filipino young leaders in the diaspora.

By connecting Filipino Americans to the motherland, they foster collaborative multinational relationships that create innovations and support the socio-economic progress of the global Filipino community.

(PH Embassy Release) n

Multiple responses received; 90-day negotiating period now underway SAN DIEGO – In a key step toward revitalizing the Midway District and increasing affordable housing options, the City of San Diego announced on Thursday, December 9 that it received seven responses to the Notice of Availability (NOA) to redevelop the 48.5-acre site that includes the Sports Arena and is now negotiating with five of the respondents.

“This project will bring much needed affordable housing for San Diegans and will serve as a catalyst for revitalizing a neighborhood that has waited years for transformation,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “With multiple responses to consider, we have confidence that this process will result in a success for the Midway community and for our entire city.”

On Oct. 4, 2021, the City issued an NOA, signifying to developers that the City intends to lease the site for a mix of residential, entertainment, office, and park uses. A 90-day goodfaith negotiating period is now underway.

Interested parties had 60 days to submit their responses to the NOA by the deadline of Dec. 3. Of those received, the city will commence negotiations with:

• Discover Midway (Affirmed Housing, ASM Global, Brookfield Properties, National Core).

• Hometown SD (Monarch Group, Essex, Eden Housing, JMI Sports).

• Midway Rising (Chelsea, Zephyr, Legends, AECOM).

• Midway Village (Toll Brothers, Revitate, Bridge Housing).

• Neighborhood Next (Wakeland, Community Housing Works, The ConAm Group).

Two proposals, from The Panacea Group (C. Daniel Gallardo) and Cotterkey Investments, were deemed not to be responsive to the conditions outlined in the NOA and will not proceed to negotiations.

During the 90-day negotiating period, the city will seek to garner the greatest return to the community from the site by maximizing the amount of affordable housing and ensuring the delivery of a state-of-the-art regional entertainment venue to replace the 55-year-old Pechanga Arena. Following negotiations, city staff will present the results to the Land Use and Housing Committee then the full City Council for input.

“We are so pleased that restarting the process in accordance with the Surplus Land Act guidelines has resulted

SD Mayor Todd Gloria

in additional interest,” said Penny Maus, Director of the City’s Department of Real Estate and Airport Management. “Greater interest encourages creativity, and we hope this will ultimately benefit San Diegans by resulting in a better project.”

The NOA released this fall included a Disclosure regarding Measure E, the voter-approved amendment to San Diego’s Municipal Code that

File photo

eliminated the 30-foot coastal height limit in the Midway-Pacific Highway Community Plan area. Potential respondents were notified that ongoing litigation puts the fate of Measure E in doubt and were advised that, by submitting a response to the NOA, they were assuming the risk of committing resources toward redevelopment of the property.

(City of San Diego Release) n

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DECEMBER 10-16, 2021 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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“A Taste of History”

In celebration of the 500th Year Anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines in 2021, experience MonteMaria Cellars, an exclusive wine collection cellared and bottled in Napa Valley, California by the Buhman Estate Vineyards specially made in honor of the Holy Site of MonteMaria located in Batangas Province of the Philippines.

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Please enjoy our wines responsibily.