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Volume 19 - No. 49 • 14 Pages

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Volume 18 - No. 17 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

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Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, SAN DIEGO, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY

Bay Area counties enact stricter DATELINE USA US transfers military stay-at-home orders to curb COVID-19 hardware to PH FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Sacramento, San Joaquin Valley, Southern California trigger state’s regional order

THE Philippines has received an additional

by AJPRESS P1.4 billion ($29.3 million) worth of military equipment from the United States, demonSEVERAL Bay Area counties this week began strating the longstanding and steadfast U.S. their stay-at-home orders in another effort to military commitment to the Philippines. slow the spread of COVID-19.

Acting U.S. Secretary of Defense ChristoThe order went into effect at 10 p.m. on Sunpher Miller on Tuesday, December 8, met day, December 6 in Contra Costa, San Francisco with Philippine Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana and Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro Locsin Jr., announcing the recent transfer of the defense articles, including sniper and anti-IED equipment, to senior Philippine military officials.

The turnover of the defense equipment will support the modernization goals of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The new equipment will strengthen the AFP’s joint precision strike, sniper, riverine, and counter-improvised explosive device capabilities. u PAGE A4

Rep. TJ Cox (D-Calif.)

File photo

and Santa Clara, while the city of Berkeley and county of Alameda began on Monday, December 7 and Marin on Tuesday, December 8.

The six jurisdictions — preemptively acting before the region hits the ICU capacity threshold as set forth by California Gov. Gavin Newsom — moved to close certain non-essential businesses

by RITCHEL

MENDIOLA AJPress

Fil-Am Rep. TJ Cox concedes in race Filipina nurse administers for California’s 21st first COVID-19 vaccine in UK Congressional District MENDIOLA AJPress

REP. TJ Cox has conceded in the race for the state’s 21st Congressional District, a month after the 2020 general election.

Cox — who made history in 2018 as the first Filipino American from California elected to Congress — conceded to his challenger, Republican David Valadao on Friday, December 4 in a failed reelection bid to continue representing the district, which includes Central Valley areas of Fresno Coun-

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A FILIPINA nurse was part of history this week as she administered the first COVID-19 vaccine outside of clinical trials to a 90-yearold woman in the United Kingdom.

National Health Service (NHS) nurse May Parsons on Tuesday, December 8, administered the vaccine to Margaret Keenan, the first person in the world to receive the PfizerBioNTech COVID-19 vaccine after its clinical approval in the country.

“It’s a huge honor to be the first person in the country to deliver a COVID-19 jab to a patient,” Parsons said in a statement released by NHS. “I’m just glad that I’m able to play a part in this historic day. The last few months have been tough for all of us working in the NHS, but now it feels like there is light at the end of the tunnel,” she added.

Following Keenan, an 81-year-old man named William Shakespeare was the second individual to receive the vaccine.

M. ORIEL

AJPress

Assemblymember Rob Bonta

WITH California Attorney General Xavier Becerra tapped to join the incoming Biden administration, several Filipino American organizations are calling on Gov. Gavin Newsom to appoint Assemblymember Rob Bonta to the high office.

The impending vacancy comes as President-elect Joe Biden announced Becerra as his nominee for secretary of health and human services.

Bonta — who made history as the first Fil-Am to serve in CaliFile photo fornia’s legislature — was among

the contenders for attorney general in 2017 when Kamala Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate.

Becerra, then a congressman representing the 34th congressional district in Southern California, was ultimately selected by former Gov. Jerry Brown.

During the 2020 November election, Bonta was reelected for a fifth term to represent the state’s 18th Assembly district, which covers the East Bay areas of Oakland, Alameda, and San Leandro. He currently serves as the assistant majority leader, and sits on several committees, including appropriations and health.

THE World Bank expects the Philippine economy to start recovering in the next two years as the country eases quarantine restrictions, allowing more industries to resume operations.

The multilateral lender on Tuesday, December 8, forecasted the Philippines an economic growth of 5.9% in 2021, and 6.0% in 2022.

“With the steady decline in daily cases despite the gradual re-opening of industries, the risk of reversing to stricter quarantine restrictions is likely reduced,” said Rong Qian, World Bank Senior Economist.

“If the positive trend persists, the infection curve is likely to flatten in the first half of 2021, which will help pave the way for a sustainable economic recovery in 2021-2022,” she added.

The World Bank noted that government spending for infrastructure projects next year would help ensure a stable economic footing as the programs would create and provide job opportunities.

“Regaining momentum on the public infrastructure program will support economic recovery and increase

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Online registration for overseas voting in 2022 PH elections begins

by AJPRESS

OVERSEAS Filipinos may now register to vote online for the 2022 Philippine elections.

The Philippine Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) iRehistro, which has been operational since December 1, is acceptu PAGE A2 ing applications for new registrants, transfer and reactivation of voter records, the change of name or correction of entries on record, and inclusion of records in the book of voters/reinstatement of name in the list of voters.

The online facility also reWith possible picks circulat- quires the applicants to provide ing for the Golden State’s next their personal information, cititop lawyer, several Fil-Am orga- zenship details, and residency nizations are gathering support to show Newsom why he should consider the 48-year-old Fil-Am lawmaker.

The National Filipino American Lawyers Association, along with six Fil-Am affiliate organizations in California, sent a letter to Newsom this week, recognizing that the attorney general would be facing pressing challenges of today — including the COVID-19 pandemic, civil rights movement against systemic racism and the

Fil-Am groups call on Newsom to appoint Rob Bonta as California’s attorney general

by CHRISTINA

u PAGE A2

World Bank: PH economy to bounce back in 2021

LGBTQI FLAG. Manila City Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso (right) and Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan (left) display the LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex) flag and walk on the rainbow-colored LGBTQI pedestrian lane in front of the Plaza Rajah Sulayman along Roxas Boulevard on Wednesday, December 9. The city government inaugurated the LBTQI walkway in support of the sector.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

by RITCHEL

and operations, such as outdoor dining, hair salons, museums, wineries, breweries, bars, movie theaters, and zoos. Restaurants can continue to offer takeout and delivery services.

San Mateo, however, is not under a stay-athome order after county Health Officer Scott

data.

However, the poll body stressed that accomplishing the online form does not automatically make the applicant a registered voter.

“Take note that using this online facility only attempts to facilitate the process of accomplishment of the Application Form. It does not automatically mean approval of your application,” Comelec said in an announcement on its website.

“You still have to personally appear before the concerned Philippine embassy or consulate together with the printed online application forms (3 copies) for QR scanning and biometrics capture to complete u PAGE A3

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december 11-17, 2020 • NOrcAL ASIAN JOUrNAL

Filipina nurse administers first...

PAGE A1 In an interview with “Good Morning Britain,” the Filipina nurse said she was proud to participate in a step toward curbing COVID-19.

“I’m really glad to be telling all the Filipinos in the country and in the world that we can make a difference,” Parsons said, continuing “...It’s a historical event for Filipinos all across the globe, making sure we are proud of what we’ve achieved…and the care that we give. I’m very proud to say to everyone that I’m a British-Filipino today, making history.”

“I’m very proud to say to everyone that I’m a British-Filipino today, making history,” she added.

Parsons, a Filipina migrant, has been working in the UK’s NHS for the past 24 years now.

She inoculated the vaccine to Keenan at a local hospital in Coventry.

Keenan, for her part, expressed her gratitude for the Filipina nurse as well as the NHS staff for their service.

“I feel so privileged to be the first person vaccinated against COVID-19. It’s the best early

birthday present I could wish for because it means I can finally look forward to spending time with my family and friends in the New Year after being on my own for most of the year,” she said in a separate statement released by the NHS. “I can’t thank May and the NHS staff enough who have looked after me tremendously, and my advice to anyone offered the vaccine is to take it – if I can have it at 90, then you can have it too!” added Keenan.

In a tweet, British Ambassador to the Philippines and Palau Daniel Pruce called the event a “fantastic moment.”

“A fantastic moment! And great to see that the vaccine is administered by Nurse May Parsons from the Philippines – one of the many thousands of Filipino healthcare workers making such an enormous contribution to the #NHS,” he wrote.

The UK is the first country to start a mass vaccination campaign in the world. It has secured 40 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine after clinical trials showed an efficacy rate of 94% against

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

From the Front Page SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the United States’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is moving ahead with its process to determine whether to provide emergency use authorization for Pfizer’s vaccine.

On Tuesday, the FDA announced that its review found the vaccine to be safe and effective after one dose.

According to Dr. Greg Poland, director of the Mayo Clinic’s Vaccine Research Group in Rochester, Minnesota, he could “see absolutely no reason why this emergency use authorization would not be granted.”

If granted the EUA, the first round of vaccine rollout in the U.S. is expected to be distributed within days.

The Philippines, on the other hand, is waiting for a number of vaccines to be evaluated by the country’s FDA for use in the country. It recently signed a tripartite agreement for two million doses of AstraZeneca’s vaccine with the help of the private sector, and plans to acquire 20 million more doses using public money. n

PROPER DISTANCE. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III conducts an inspection at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITx) on Monday, December 7 and reminds passengers of the proper physical distancing measures in public areas. Also in the photo are Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez (left) and other officials.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

Bay Area counties enact stricter...

PAGE A1 Murrow said there have been not enough data to support that certain activities are driving coronavirus transmission.

“While I don’t have scientific evidence to support this, I also believe these greater restrictions will result in more job loss, more hunger, more despair and desperation (the structure of our economy is, for the most part, if you don’t work, you don’t eat or have a roof over your head), and more death from causes other than COVID,” Murrow said in a statement. “And I wonder, are these premature deaths any less worrisome than COVID deaths?”

On Dec. 3, Newsom announced the regional stayat-home order, which orders areas of the state to follow certain measures if they have less than 15% ICU availability. The order prohibits private gatherings of any size, closes sector operations except for critical infrastructure and retail, and requires 100% masking and physical distancing in all others. (Newsom in late November previously introduced a monthlong curfew from 10 p.m. to 5

a.m. for counties in the purple tier, over 94% of the state.)

The five regions are broken up by: Northern California, Greater Sacramento, Bay Area, San Joaquin Valley and Southern California.

Northern California encompasses Del Norte, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Mendocino, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Tehama, Trinity.

Greater Sacramento entails Alpine, Amador, Butte, Colusa, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Sierra, Sutter, Yolo, Yuba.

Bay Area covers Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma.

San Joaquin Valley is Calaveras, Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, San Benito, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne.

Southern California spans Imperial, Inyo, Los Angeles, Mono, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura.

As of this writing, Southern California and San Joaquin Valley are the two re-

gions with ICU capacities that have dropped below the 15% threshold. Greater Sacramento began its regional stay-at-home order on Thursday, December 10, 24 hours after its capacity dropped to 14.3%.

Southern California’s ICU capacity has dropped to 9% and San Joaquin Valley currently to 4.2%, according to the California Department of Public Health on Wednesday, December 9.

Meanwhile, the Bay Area stands at 20.9% and Northern California at 27.1%. Overall, the state’s ICU availability is now at 11.6%.

California recorded 30,851 new cases on Tuesday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 1,420,558 to date. Meanwhile, 20,243 fatalities have been reported. The 7-day positivity rate is 10% and the 14-day positivity rate is 8.8%.

What does the regional stay-at-home order mean?

Newsom described the new order as an “emergency brake” to curb the exponential spread of the virus in California where ICU capacity is dire. The order PAGE A3

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Dateline USa

Charter commits to invest $1-M in NAAC to provide small business loans in underserved CA communities STAMFORD – Charter Communications, Inc. on Wednesday, December 9 announced that the Spectrum Community Investment Loan Fund (Loan Fund) has committed to invest $1 million in the National Asian American Coalition (NAAC) Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), which will provide low-interest loans to small businesses in Charter’s California service area. This marks the latest investment made by Charter as part of its $20 million commitment to support small businesses whose goods and services help meet core needs in financially underserved communities within its 41-state footprint.

“Charter is an important part of every community we serve and we are invested in the continued success of those communities across our footprint,” said Jeff Buller, Charter’s Vice President overseeing the Loan Fund. “Small business ownership and growth are fundamental to developing and sustaining the economic strength of our communities. Our investment in the NAAC and in other CDFIs supports small businesses by providing access to much-needed low-interest capital.”

The NAAC is a leading national Asian American nonprofit organization advocating for greater economic opportunities for individuals and businesses in underserved communities. NAAC’s CDFI offers California small businesses working capital to help owners restore, maintain, build or grow their business.

“There are countless families and small business owners under pressure from the financial burdens caused by the unprecedented pandemic restrictions,”

said Faith Bautista, President and CEO of the National Asian American Coalition. “Charter’s investment in California’s disadvantaged neighborhoods is happening at a critical time in our history and will be a part of the stories of how some of these small businesses came back.”

In addition to the loans, each CDFI receives a grant to fund technical assistance programs and professional training for small businesses to help establish sound business practices necessary for long-term growth and continuity.

Some of these grants have recently been earmarked to support businesses impacted by COVID-19.

The Spectrum Community Investment Loan Fund previously announced $1 million investments in Pursuit Community Finance in New York, PeopleFund in Texas, the Economic and Community Development Institute (ECDI) in Ohio, and Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp (WWBIC), $3 million in the National Urban Leagues’ Urban Empowerment Fund (UEF), and an additional $3 million in lowinterest loans directly to CDFIs in partnership with and as directed by the National Action Network (NAN). In the coming months, the Loan Fund expects to invest an additional $5 million in CDFIs in states served by the company including Florida, North Carolina, and Missouri.

Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR) is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 30 million customers in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. Over an advanced communications network, the company offers a full range of state-of-theart residential and business ser-

Fil-Am groups call on Newsom...

PAGE A1 t rise in hate crimes, including against the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.

Amid the protests over the summer, Bonta introduced a bill to classify racially motivated 911 calls as hate crimes. He also authored a 2019 bill, which was signed into law by Newsom, to phase out the use of all private, for-profit prisons, including both prisons and immigration detention facilities, in California.

In October, he announced a plan to introduce legislation that will require elected prosecutors to recuse themselves from the investigation and prosecution of law enforcement misconduct if they accept financial contributions from law enforcement unions.

“While the AAPI community celebrates Harris’ election as the first American of Asian and Black descent to serve as Vice President of the United States, California will be losing one of its highest-ranking AAPI statewide officials when Harris vacates her U.S. Senate seat. We submit that it is, therefore, critical for Governor Newsom to consider an AAPI candidate for a similarly highranking statewide office,” NFALA’s letter said. (AAPIs make up around 15% of California’s population, with the Fil-Am population among the largest.)

Bonta, who was born in Quezon City, Philippines, immigrated with his family to California’s Central Valley, where his parents worked for the United Farm Workers of America, organizing Filipino and Mexican American workers. In previous interviews,

this upbringing shaped his decision to pursue a career in law and public service.

He obtained a law degree from Yale Law School and clerked for Judge Alvin W. Thompson of the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut before moving to San Francisco law firm Keker & Van Nest. Prior to his election to the state Assembly in 2012, Bonta was San Francisco’s deputy city attorney for nearly a decade and served one term on the Alameda City Council.

KAYA: Filipino Americans for Progress similarly threw their support.

“He has distinguished himself as a groundbreaking and effective legislator, leader, and strong community advocate, especially for California’s most vulnerable populations,” Mary Tablante, national co-chair of the Washington, DC-based group, said in a statement.

California State Treasurer Fiona Ma also publicized her endorsement, saying Bonta would be “an exemplary choice to protect and serve the people and interests of California.”

Other candidates floating around for attorney general include Rep. Eric Swalwell, Rep. Adam Schiff, Assemblyman David Chiu and Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez.

The governor is also tasked with naming someone to take over Vice President-elect Harris’ Senate seat. Secretary of State Alex Padilla is rumored to be a top contender for the latter so should that appointment happen, Newsom would have yet another seat to fill. n

Fil-Am Rep. TJ Cox concedes...

PAGE A1 t ty, Kern County, Kings County, and Tulare County.

“Almost three years ago, I entered the race for California’s 21st District as an underdog. But we out-worked our opponent and pulled off the most stunning upset in Central Valley history,” Cox said in a statement. “Unfortunately, this year due to the coronavirus, we weren’t able to engage in door-to-door personal canvassing and the election results reflected that.”

Valadao, then the incumbent congressman whom Cox narrowly beat in 2018, received 85,298 (50.45%) votes this time around compared to Cox’s 84,406 (49.55%) votes, according to the Nov. 30 vote count from the Kern County Elections Office.

Despite the lack of in-person campaigning during this cycle, Cox said he was “proud of the campaign we’ve run” that did not “engage in gutter politics.”

“We took our message directly to the people, many of whom never knew they could have a strong voice in their federal government. I never forgot that I work for them,” he said.

He urged Valadao to be a “strong advocate” for the Central Valley in the nation’s capital.

“I hope Mr. Valadao goes back to Washington humbled by his 2018 loss and has learned he can’t discount communities like Arvin, Lamont, and Mendota, places that went without visits from their congressional representative for years. I hope he will indeed deliver results for the Central Valley, which desperately needs a strong advocate in Washington,” Cox said.

Prior to his one term in Congress, Cox — who was born in Walnut Creek, California to a Filipina mother and Chinese father — was a licensed engineer and small business owner who developed rural health clinics and community centers in the Central Valley.

Gina Ortiz Jones, a Filipina American U.S. Army veteran, was unsuccessful in her second bid for Texas’ 23rd Congressional District.

Currently, the only member of the U.S. Congress of Filipino descent is Rep. Bobby Scott, a Democrat from Virginia, who sailed to reelection with 67% of the vote. (AJPress)

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • deCembeR 11-17, 2020

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Bay Area counties enact stricter...

PAGE A2 is to remain in effect for the next three weeks, and regions will be able to lift the order on Dec. 28 if the ICU capacity projections for January are above or equal 15%.

“This is the most challenging moment since the beginning of the pandemic,” Newsom said on Monday, December 7. “If there was ever any time to put aside your doubt, to put aside your skepticism, to put aside your cynicism, to put aside your ideology [and] to put aside any consideration accept this: Lives are in the balance.

Lives will be lost unless we do more than we’ve ever done.”

All bars, wineries, nail salons, hair salons and barbershops and other personal care services are to close. Restaurants can remain open only for takeout and delivery; indoor and outdoor dining options, which is believed to be a major source for superspreading, are shut down.

Another source of the super spread, large gatherings and parties with people from different households, is also being more closely monitored with this new order.

vices including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.

For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The company also distributes award-winning news coverage, sports and high-quality original programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks and Spectrum Originals.

More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.

The National Asian American Coalition is a HUD-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit housing counseling organization and a US Department of the Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution (“CDFI”).

Since its inception in 2004, the NAAC has advocated for and has provided essential services such as housing counseling, microlending, and alternative financ- PAGE A1 t ing to Asian Americans and other the filing process,” it added. minority and low-income comBiometrics capture may be munities. For more information done only at Philippine embasvisit naac.org. (Charter Commu- sies and consulates during ofnications Release)

Unlike the first stay-at-home order issued in March, this new order states that retail stores and shopping centers are allowed to be open at 20% capacity.

In his remarks last week announcing the new order, Newsom recognized that the first stay-at-home order unfairly favored big box retailers, which were allowed to stay open with little restrictions compared to small businesses.

Non-essential travel is “temporarily restricted statewide” and hotels and motels are now only allowed for guests traveling for an “essential reason,” including for work, school or a family emergency.

Meanwhile, offices must allow remote only except for critical infrastructure sectors where remote working is not possible. Places of worship can continue allowing outdoor services, and entertainment production can operate without live audiences.

Outdoor playgrounds were previously ordered to close in the regional directive, but the state quietly backtracked on Wednesday, December 9, al-

lowing them to reopen in counties in the purple tier so long as physical distancing is followed.

San Francisco likewise announced that its playgrounds would be open by Thursday, reminding residents to not use it as an opportunity to gather with others outside of their households.

“I’m glad to hear that the State has updated their Stay at Home order to allow outdoor playgrounds to open. Outdoor activity is important for all of our physical and mental health, especially children,” San Francisco Mayor London Breed wrote in a tweet.

Regarding the enforcement of these rules, Sacramento is largely leaving those decisions to local authorities, but Newsom emphasized that uncooperative counties would see consequences.

“If you’re unwilling to adopt the protocols to support the mitigation and the reduction of the spread of this disease, we’re happy to redirect those dollars to counties that feel differently,” Newsom added.

(With reports from Klarize Medenilla/ AJPress)

Online registration for overseas... fice hours.

Comelec also said that the Election Registration Board (ERB) will approve the application on the scheduled date for

the next ERB hearing.

The voter registration period resumed last September 1 and will run until September 30, 2021. n

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december 11-17, 2020 • NOrcAL ASIAN JOUrNAL

Dateline USa

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COVID-19 vaccines are in the pipeline, scammers won’t be far behind REPORTS about the release of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of the year are promising, but plans for distribution are still being worked out.

Here’s what we know right now: Two vaccine manufacturers (Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna) have submitted applications for Emergency Use Authorization to the Food and Drug Administration(FDA). The FDA could complete its review of these applications by the third or fourth week of December 2020. Additional vaccine manufacturers are expected to apply for FDA authorization in 2021.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), an independent group of experts convened by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has already recommended that health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities should receive the first available doses. As additional data is available, more vaccines are authorized by the FDA, and vaccine production increases, ACIP will continue to update its recommendations.

Once the FDA authorizes one or more vaccines from pharmaceutical manufacturers, vaccines will be distributed to federaland state-approved locations.

For most people living in the U.S., states and territories will make the final decisions on who will get the vaccines and when.

States are also working on their own specific vaccination plans.

You may want to check with your

The Federal Trade Commission is warning consumers of possible scams related to the release of COVID-19 vaccines.

Image capture from www.ftc.gov

state for specific information regarding distribution plans in your state. More information on where and how to get a COVID19 vaccine will be available once vaccines are authorized and/or being shipped out.

While we wait for a timeline and more information, there’s no doubt scammers will be scheming. Here’s what you need to know to avoid a vaccine-related scam: • You likely will not need to pay anything out of pocket to get the vaccine during this public health emergency.

• You can’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.

• You can’t pay to get early access to the vaccine.

• No one from a vaccine distri-

bution site or health care payer, like a private insurance company, will call you asking for your Social Security number or your credit card or bank account information to sign you up to get the vaccine.

• Beware of providers offering other products, treatments, or medicines to prevent the virus. Check with your health care provider before paying for or receiving any COVID-19-related treatment.

If you get a call, text, email — or even someone knocking on your door — claiming they can get you early access to the vaccine, STOP. That’s a scam.

Don’t pay for a promise of vaccine access or share personal information. Instead, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc. gov or file a complaint with your state or territory attorney general through consumerresources.org, the consumer website of the National Association of Attorneys General.

Stay connected to stay informed. Subscribe to consumer alerts from the Federal Trade Commission at https://public. govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/ new?topic_id=USFTCCONSUMER_ 8. When you do, you’ll get updates delivered right to your email inbox. You may also want to check your state or territory attorney general’s website for consumer alerts and other helpful information. (Colleen Tressler/ Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC)

‘CHRISTMASK’ TRAIN. Light Rail Manila Corporation president and chief executive officer (CEO) Juan Alfonso unveils a wagon of the Light Rail Transit 1 (LRT-1) painted with a “face mask” at the Baclaran station on Monda, December 7. The “Christmask”-themed train aims to spread holiday cheer and remind passengers of the importance of observance of health protocols such as wearing of face coverings amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

Judge restores DACA, orders DHS to accept new applications

by Christina

M. Oriel

AJPress

FOR the first time in three years, the program that has protected young undocumented immigrants from deportation will accept new applications.

Judge Nicholas Garaufis of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York on Friday, December 4 ruled that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program will be restored to its original form, and that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security must post a public notice by Monday that it will review new applications.

The approved applications will receive work permits for two

years.

This comes after the Trump administration in 2017 moved to terminate the program, but the legality of the program has been weighed by several federal courts, including the Supreme Court this summer.

DACA, which was introduced by former President Barack Obama in 2012, granted renewable deportation protections of two years to certain young undocumented immigrants, known as “Dreamers,” who were brought to the United States illegally as children.

Aside from being able to stay in the U.S., recipients were able to work legally which allowed many to pursue higher education and other career goals. The program, however, does not offer a pathway to citizenship for the grantees.

On November 14, Garaufis ruled that the Trump administra-

tion’s rules limiting applications and renewals for DACA were invalid because Chad Wolf was not legally appointed acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

Wolf in July suspended the DACA program pending DHS review, despite the U.S. Supreme Court blocking the Trump administration’s plan to dismantle the program a month before.

Around 650,000 individuals have benefitted from the DACA program.

According to Asian Americans Advancing Justice (Advancing Justice), an affiliation of five independent civil rights organizations, at least 16,000 DACA recipients are of Asian American or Pacific Islander (AAPI) descent.

Between 2012 and 2017, at least 3,880 Filipinos were granted DACA protection, according to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). n

World Bank: PH economy to...

PAGE A1 t growth potential which might have been negatively affected by the pandemic,” Qian said.

Additional 2.7 million poor Filipinos The World Bank forecasted that the economy would contract even deeper at 8.1% in 2020, a revision from its -6.9% forecast last October.

This is due to several “shocks” like the COVID-19 pandemic as well as Typhoons Quinta, Rolly, and Ulysses which battered parts of the Philippines between October and November.

“The series of natural disasters that hit the country while we are battling the pandemic highlights the importance of mainstreaming disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation into policy and planning,” said Ndiame Diop, World Bank Country Director for Brunei, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines.

“While the Philippines is financially resilient, stronger coordination, execution and implementation will help further improve social and physical resilience to frequent shocks,” Diop added.

The contraction is expected to increase poverty in the country, according to the World Bank.

“The expected growth contraction in 2020 is likely to increase poverty in the short term, resulting in an additional 2.7 million poor people in 2020,” Qian said, basing the poverty line on a $3.2 or roughly ₱150 daily per capita income for middle-income countries.

“The poor and vulnerable, are especially likely to experience significant welfare losses, given their limited capacity to manage risks,” she further said.

The multilateral lender also pointed out that private consumption, which accounts for two-thirds of the country’s econ-

omy, also declined at a record pace due to high unemployment and falling incomes.

“While addressing the pandemic, the country needs to sustain focus on the structural reform agenda,” Qian stressed.

“Speeding up reforms that improve the business environment, foster competition, and strengthen resilience against natural disasters will support the economic recovery and boost productivity growth in the long term,” she added.

‘Do better’ Malacañang, for its part, vowed to do better in 2021 following the World Bank’s latest projection.

“Siyempre po nalulungkot tayo diyan dahil ibig sabihin mas marami maghihirap sa pagbagal ng ating pag-unlad. Pero iyan naman po ay naging resulta ng pandemya at ng mga sigalot na sunod-sunod na dumaan sa ating bansa (Of course, we are sad because it means more people will suffer due to our slow growth.

But it is the result of the pandemic and the series of disruptions that hit the country),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Tuesday.

“Kaya po natin ito, babangon tayo (We can do it, we will recover) we will do better in 2021,” he added.

The spokesman reminded the public to follow the minimum health protocols placed to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.

“And pagdating po sa pandemya, kaya po natin ito, sundin lang natin ang sinasabi ng Presidente: Mask, Hugas, Iwas. Pag-ingatan ang buhay para sa hanapbuhay (And when it comes to pandemic, we will overcome this, just follow what the President said: wear face mask, wash hands, physical distancing. Protect life for work),” said Roque. n

US transfers military hardware...

PAGE A1 t

“I am grateful for the opportunity to visit the Philippines, the United States’ oldest treaty ally in Asia. It was an honor to meet with Secretary Lorenzana and Secretary Loscin to discuss deepening our alliance and supporting a free and open South China Sea and Indo-Pacific region,” Miller said.

During the meeting, Miller stressed the importance of the U.S.-Philippine alliance to national and regional security, and discussed opportunities for greater bilateral security cooperation to maintain a free and open IndoPacific region.

He likewise highlighted the more than P1.1 billion ($23.4 million) in U.S. COVID-19 assistance and disaster relief for recent typhoon victims, as well as ongoing U.S. support for Philippine counterterrorism and maritime security efforts.

“We are grateful for the support provided by the United States as we continuously work on the enhancement of the Philippines’ defense capabilities,” said Lorenzana.

“The modernization of the

AFP will ultimately allow us to respond more effectively to both traditional and non-traditional security threats to our maritime nation. Our government expresses our deep appreciation for the US government’s assistance in protecting our borders from external threats,” he added.

Miller’s visit followed the November 25 visit of U.S. Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett, as well as U.S. National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien’s November 22-23 visit, during which he announced P868 million ($18 million) in supplementary military equipment and training for the AFP. “The Philippines is by far the largest recipient of U.S. military assistance in the Indo-Pacific region,” noted the U.S. Embassy in Manila.

“Since 2015, the United States has delivered more than P33 billion ($650 million) worth of planes, ships, armored vehicles, small arms, and other military equipment to the Philippines, while training side-by-side with our Filipino allies,” it added.

(Ritchel Mendiola/AJPress)

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A

House, Senate ratify 2021 national budget MANILA — Both chambers of Congress on Wednesday, December 9 approved the final version of the Duterte administration’s penultimate budget worth P4.5 trillion.

In a tweet Wednesday night, the House announced that it has ratified the bicameral committee report on the 2021 General Appropriations Bill (GAB).

A few hours later, the Senate also ratified the bicameral version of the proposed 2021 national budget.

Speaker Lord Allan Velasco said the approval of the 2021 national budget “reflects the serious commitment of the Duterte government to defeat COVID-19 and bring the economy back on track.”

“When we keep our commitments to our fellow Filipinos and continue to put their interests first, we will surely overcome the health, social and economic impacts of the pandemic,” Velasco said.

The final version of the budget bill includes P20 billion allocation for COVID-19 vaccines, P2 billion for the purchase of personal protective equipment and P462 million for the Medical Health Assistance Program and P100 million for the mental health program under the Department of Health.

The top 10 recipients of the 2021 budget are the following: • Education (DepEd, SUCs, CHED, TESDA) - P708.2 billion • DPWH - P694.8 billion • Health (DOH, PhilHealth,

Vaccines) - P287.5 billion • DILG - P247.5 billion • DND - P205.5 billion • DSWD - P176.7 billion • DOTr - P87.4 billion • DA - P68.6 billion • Judiciary - P44.1 billion • DOLE - P36.3 billion As of writing, the Senate is still deliberating on the final version of the 2021 budget.

Once approved by both chambers of Congress, the bill can be forwarded to the president for final approval.

According to Velasco, the enrolled copy of the 2021 GAB will be sent next week to Malacañang for the signature of President Rodrigo Duterte. (Patricia Lourdes Viray with report from Xave Gregorio/Philstar.com)

Filipinos abroad with COVID-19 near 11,700 MANILA — The foreign affairs department on Wednesday, December 9 said four more Filipinos abroad have contracted the coronavirus to bring the total to now at 11,699.

Officials in a daily bulletin said the additional infections came from the Asia Pacific region, which has reported 1,971 cases to date.

No new deaths and recoveries were reported by December 9, with fatalities staying at 847 and the number of persons who got well at 3,274.

Still, some 3,274 Filipino patients are receiving treatment for the COVID-19 in 82 countries.

The Middle East in 32 countries has 7,544 confirmed cases, and it

also has 553 deaths and 4,657 recoveries.

Asia continues to keep its death toll at nine with some 1,390 recoveries.

Europe — where Britain has begun vaccinating its citizens with shots from Pfizer/BioNTech — accounts for 1,415 Filipino cases, along with 96 deaths and 1,010 recoveries.

Americas in its 10 countries, meanwhile, have 769 infections, 521 recoveries and at 189 deaths, hold the second highest death count among Filipinos.

Globally, the novel coronavirus has infected over 68.3 million individuals, nine months since the disease caused by it was declared a pandemic by the World Health

BLACK NAZARENE. ‘Wengweng’, a 40-year-old vendor, sells necklaces with an engraved image of the Black Nazarene in front of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao in Quezon City on Tuesday, December 8 a special non-working holiday in the country in commemoration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. For the first time, the January 9 grand procession of the Feast of Black Nazarene that usually Organization on March 11.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler The United States continues to draws millions was canceled due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

have the most number of infections and deaths at 15.17 million and 286,338, respectively.

This was followed by India with 9.7 million cases, Brazil with 6.6 million, Russia with 2.5 million and France with 2.3 million.

Brazil accounts for the second highest number of fatalities at 178,159, with India trailing at 141,360, Mexico at 110,874 and the United Kingdom at 62,130.

The Philippines’ 444,164 confirmed cases put it at the 27th spot and continues to rank as the second in Southeast Asia with the most count of infections, next only to Indonesia’s 592,900. (Christian Deiparine/Philstar.com)

In this file photo, officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs welcome home 16 stranded Filipino seafarers and three land-based overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from China.

DFA photo

No ceasefire with Reds ever again – Duterte

by Catherine

S. Valente ManilaTimes.net

PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte has ruled out any ceasefire with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), saying the government will work to crush communist rebels.

The President declared that there will be no ceasefire this Christmas “or ever again.”

In his weekly address to the nation late Monday, December 7, Duterte claimed that the ceasefire with the CPP NPA had long been dead.

“There will be no ceasefire ever again under my term… For all intents and purposes, ‘yung (the) ceasefire is dead. Wala na ‘yon.

Matagal na ‘yon (It’s long gone),” he said.

The Philippine government traditionally declares a holiday ceasefire with the communists during the Christmas holidays, which is reciprocated by the rebel group.

The military earlier announced that it would not recommend to the President a traditional holiday ceasefire, citing

the communist rebels’ “crimes.”

Earlier this year, the government and the CPP declared a ceasefire to allow the government to focus on the coronavirus pandemic.

Both sides claimed that the other violated the ceasefire.

In the same public address, Duterte also shot down the resumption of peace talks between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), the CPP’s negotiating arm.

He admitted that he “walked away” from the peace talks “because we cannot understand each other.”

“Maybe we were talking in different dialects, I don’t know why, but I simply cannot understand the way it was being carried by the other side, the way it was being played.

What was evolving before me was something that was not acceptable to the Republic of the Philippines, lalo na ‘yang (especially that) coalition government,” he said.

The President insisted that the rebel demand to form a coalition government was unacceptable, saying, “No stupid president will

allow it. He will get impeached.

You are not supposed to share that power…those powers given to me under the law are only to be exercised unless they are capable of being delegated. I cannot compromise anything in this government. It’s either I will be impeached or the military and police will shoot me.”

Duterte also insisted that all communists were “bad” since they were conspiring to overthrow the government.

“I have to destroy you,” the President said, adding that while the anti-subversion law had been repealed, the communists had committed murder, arson and other atrocities.

“These are serious offenses under the Revised Penal Code and your organization, simply communists all of you, the act of one is the act of all,” he said.

Duterte also disclosed plans to identify other people belonging to the communist rebel organization.

“So, what do we do? Well, I’m trying to sort out what we will do to you because you are now criminals and I said I have pointed out we are not only tagging u PAGE A7

A6

DECEMBER 11-17, 2020 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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FeatURes

OPiniOn

Body cameras vs abuse

IN 2017, surveillance camera footage belied the police version of the killing of 17-year-old student Kian de los Santos in Caloocan City. The video footage together with eyewitness accounts led to the conviction of the policemen who summarily executed De los Santos as he knelt on the ground and pleaded for his life.

That was one of the rare cases in the brutal drug war wherein the three executioners were not only caught but also convicted and sent to prison for life. Justice came swiftly mostly because of the evidence on video, corroborated by the eyewitnesses.

De los Santos’ execution did not put an end to the killings in the war on drugs, but it led to proposals to use body cameras so anti-drug operations would be properly documented and abuse of police power prevented.

In September this year, about 2,600 body cameras arrived for use by the Philippine National Police. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, tasked by law to lead the campaign against illegal drugs, has also procured its own body cameras.

The cameras can be used not only for the drug war but also for other police operations against criminality. Law enforcers themselves will find body cameras useful in belying accusations of sus-

pects about planting of evidence and unlawful arrest. Body cameras are useful particularly in areas where there are no closed-circuit television cameras – and there are still many places all over the country without CCTV. Video footage used as evidence will also speed up adjudication of cases, so law enforcers will see the fruits of their work paying off.

A bill is pending at the Senate, requiring the use of body cameras in police operations and their activation particularly when lives are at risk. Recordings must be retained for six months before deletion, unless these are needed as documentary evidence. The proposed Body Camera Act includes provisions to protect the privacy of crime victims, people in their homes, and informants.

Law enforcement agencies need not wait for the passage of the law to start using body cameras.

Enactment of the law, however, can enhance the utilization of the devices. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Readers weigh in: Should Biden pardon Trump to unify the country? Could Trump pardon himself and his children?

The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS

stated his definitive stand on this issue. In a town hall meeting during the presidential campaign, Biden already gave a firm answer to this very question. He pledged that he would not use his new executive powers to pardon President Donald Trump of any potential crimes.

“We never saw anything like the prostitution of [the presidency] like we see it today,” Biden said. “What’s going on is an absolute travesty. A travesty of justice.”

Filipinos in America who read the article posted their comments on social media. Here are some of them: “Absolutely NO PARDON. Trump should be made an example of how a president should NEVER be and how his destructive actions should NEVER be repeated by any future president. Pardoning him is sending the wrong messages. Lock him up and throw away the key.

Any president in the future shall shudder at the thought of abusing power.” - Lee Leon “Ask this question on January 20th.” - Karen Kay Kelly “I will regret that I voted for Biden if he does that!” -Manolo Patoot “What would VP Biden pardon Trump for if the former

JOE BIDEN has officially secured enough electors to become president. He accrued more than 270 electors when California certified its presidential election on Friday, December 4, and appointed 55 electors pledged to vote for Biden, officially handing him the Electoral College majority needed to win the White House. Biden now has 279 electors, which is over the 270 threshold for victory.

As the Associated Press reported, “The electors named Friday will meet Dec. 14, along with counterparts in each state, to formally vote for the next president. Most states have laws binding their electors to the winner of the popular vote in their state, measures that were upheld by a Supreme Court decision this year. There have been no suggestions that any of Biden’s pledged electors would contemplate not voting for him.”

As all election processes and results lead the way to Biden’s inauguration as the 46th President of the United States on January 20, 2021, the issue of PARDON has been talked about in the news and on social media.

This is especially relevant in light of all the charges Trump

could be facing after his term due to his reported abuse of the power, resources, and public trust accorded to him by the Office of the President.

This is not even including other charges against him that are already in court, but he could not be indicted because of the Department of Justice memo that prohibits deposing a sitting president.

This is in part fueled by Trump’s tweets in 2018 claiming he can pardon himself, contrary to the law.

Trump was also reportedly in talks with his advisers about granting preemptive pardons to his children Don Jr., Eric, Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner, a White House senior adviser.

Last week, I wrote an article about what the law says about presidential pardons and clemency, as well as other legal perspectives pertaining to Trump pardoning himself and his children.

Some Trump supporters have been opining that Biden as president should consider pardoning Trump like what President Gerard Ford did to his predecessor Richard Nixon. They contend it could help heal and unify our divided nation.

Of course, Biden already

Street Talk

Wanted: A perfect president

GREG B. MACABENTA TWO years before the end of the six-year term of President Rodrigo Duterte, social media networks have been ablaze with criticisms of Philippine presidential wannabes that people don’t like.

And, in the U.S., a few weeks before President-elect Joe Biden assumes office, Trump fanatics are grieving over the loss of their “greatest president since Lincoln,” while spouting dire warnings about the oncoming Biden tenure. Of course, the Biden-ites are eager to experience a period of civility after four years of President Donald Trump’s chaotic and divisive tenure. They expect relief in Biden’s centrist policies while the progressives in his party are said to be planning to see their liberal agenda eventually implemented.

Exactly what does “progressive” and “liberal” mean? Socialism? Free health care, education and other benefits paid for by the tycoons but not by “average” or “middle income” Americans? Of course, businessmen — not just tycoons

— don’t relish the idea of carrying the weight of a welfare society. They are asking: where do these pseudo-socialists draw the line?

The other day, someone told me that in the U.S., those earning $400,000 a year are now merely middle income. So what does make of retirees making less than $2,000 a month from Social Security? And how about those unable to feed their families and pay the rent on their hovels?

In the Philippines, the selfappointed soothsayers and social media kibitzers dislike outgoing President Duterte for being “what he is and what he is not.” Fill in the blanks.

They have also expressed dismay over the reported presidential ambitions of Manny Pacquiao. Why? Because, fill in the blanks.

They also think Sen. Bong Go should go to (fill in the blanks) instead of aspiring for Malacanang. Why? Because he is allegedly a Duterte Mini-Me. As many kibitzers don’t relish the idea of a President Sara Duterte (anooo?? Duterte na naman???).

They think she will be as prone to violence as her father.

In such a case, they would pre-

fer Sen. Ping Lacson?

Or maybe, they would like Ronnie Poe resurrected in Sen. President Tito Sotto? Or would they rather have former President Fidel Ramos? Or Erap Estrada? Or Imelda Marcos? Or Bongbong?

Everyone I have asked has only been able to describe the things they dislike in a presidential wannabe. But no one has been able to adequately describe the “ideal” president.

Following is a Facebook exchange between me and a friend who was one of the finest account management persons to come out of Philippine advertising. He was also a former president of a telecommunications company and a former senior executive of a multinational firm. In sum, a pretty intelligent and knowledgeable individual.

My post read (loosely translated from the original Tagalog): “With due respect to my friends, what are the qualities of an ideal president? Brilliant like Marcos? A great speaker like Ninoy Aquino? Wealthy like Mar Roxas? A widow like Cory?

A bachelor like Noynoy? Honest like RM? Disciplined like Ramos? An economist like Gloria?

A sports icon and wealthy from personal efforts like Pacquiao?

takes office as president? All accusations on Trump were unfounded. The question is: would he be able to pardon his son since he could not pardon himself. Biden’s only recourse would be to resign snd the VP becomes President who, in return, pardons him as Ford did to Nixon. Remains to be seen!!!”

- Evelyn Andamo “How will a Biden pardon for Trump unify the country?

His supporters will only accept Trump’s return to power, nothing less. A united United States of America, redundant and funny as it sounds is not going to happen soon (if at all) as long as Trump is around.” - Alex Aison “I think we will still be divided even if he pardons him.

It will encourage others to become as reckless as Trump because they will count on a pardon after all the destruction they create. Trump should be subjected to the consequences of his actions according to law.

He is what he is now, because growing up, he was always shielded from the consequences of his actions. Pardoning him will create many more Trumps in future generations.”

-Angela Vergel de Dios “Thank you for this article.

Saved me from doing my own

research. I don’t think anyone in this group wants Biden to pardon Trump. But, like you said, if trump wants a pardon, he has to admit he did something wrong.

He will never admit that he did something wrong.” -Grace Bustamante “Trump should not pardon Biden for stealing the election!

You are disgusting for being biased. Not all Asians support your hypocrisy.” -Josie Robb “With all the anger, confusion and division he started in America...He deserves to be punished and feel the pain we suffered.”

-Vilma Camaya “Why should Biden pardon Trump? In fact, the DOJ should prosecute Trump for his crimes.” - Malou de Asis “Justice, law and order cannot be sacrificed for the sake of unity. If Trump, his family and cult members broke the laws, they should all be persecuted and punished. No one is above the law. - Rogelio G. Sion “If Biden pardons the POS traitor then Biden becomes complicit in the crimes.” - Peter Cabal “A pardon will be a stupid move and a betrayal of the voters who voted to oust Trump.”

-Jet Guerrero “Anybody in their right sense

knows inside them that TRUMP is as delusional as it gets! This is an awful period of our generation and things should be done RIGHT....what is going on!?!?!?

Nobody seems to be doing anything about this President!?!?!?

I am quite shock[ed] that the people...the Republicans just let him still do what he please[s]... nobody to stand up against his lunatic behavior... Where is the hero against all [these] misfit character[s]... I thought at one time... there was one guy!?!?!?”

- Mary Rose Amistad “Truth Prevails...Justice Prevails...No one can defy the Constitution. No one can be above the Law. God Bless America” - Joy Carpio ***

Excellent in English like Manglapus? A successful businessman like Danding? Business tycoons like Pangilinan or the Zobels? Tough like Duterte? A martyr like Rizal? Courageous like Bonifacio? A rebel like Aguinaldo? A good actor like Erap? Or all of the above? Next question: Has there ever been a politician who did not make money in office? Who among those currently in office can lead the Philippines? Has that person been born? Or is that person dead?”

My friend’s response was a non-answer: “You keep changing presidents until you find the perfect one. Like water will get you drunk as long as you keep drinking until it does. Hehe.

Actually no president is perfect that’s why we limit their tenure.

In our case, 6 years no reelection. However, some of them want to stay longer. While not perfect, they don’t want to leave and also want to pass on the position to their children.”

Another friend offered an analogy: “Choosing an ideal president is like choosing a wife or husband. You take a chance that WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get). Some are lucky.

Others wake up feeling miserable on the morning after the night before. Like a hangover after a New Year’s party.”

INDEED, there has to be a better way to choose a presi-

dent or a partner-for-life. The English poet Rudyard Kipling wrote, “If,” a piece that could provide some guidance: “If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you; If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or, being lied about, don’t deal in lies, Or, being hated, don’t give way to hating, And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise; If you can dream—and not make dreams your master; If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with triumph and disaster And treat those two impostors just the same; If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to broken, And stoop and build ’em up with worn-out tools; If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings

And never breathe a word about your loss; If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: “Hold on”; If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with kings—nor lose the common touch; If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you; If all men count with you, but none too much; If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run— Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it, And—which is more—you’ll be a Man, my son!

Of course, Rudyard Kipling was hardly an ideal human being himself. He was a jingoist and an imperialist. He also wrote the miscegenistic lines, “East is east and west is west and neither the twain shall meet.” ***

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.

*** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is working on a new public service program for the community. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos.

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.

*** gregmacabenta@hotmail.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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A

Democratic freedoms in Philippines now ‘severely restricted’ — global rights monitor

by Gaea

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION FEAST. Churchgoers come out of the Redemptorist Church in Baclaran, Parañaque after hearing Mass on Tuesday, December 8. December 8 is a special non-working holiday in the country in commemoration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, pursuant to Republic Act 10966 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

ABS-CBN rehires retrenched employees

by Jan

Milo Severo Philstar.com

MANILA — An ABS-CBN employee revealed that some of the retrenched workers are now coming back to work with the Kapamilya network.

Jon Montesa, brand communications manager of the network, took to his Twitter account to announce his comeback with the network.

He posted a screenshot of his conversation with her mom when he was retrenched and is now coming back to work.

“God’s way of reminding me

that he’s more powerful than 70 congressmen. Unti-unti, #BabalikDinAngABSCBN,” he wrote in the caption.

In another tweet, Jon asked for the support of the public in his first project with ABS-CBN, a movie starring Maymay Entrata and Edward Barber.

“Thank you so much sa suporta, mga Kapamilya! Since this is blowing up, I would like to ask you to please support my first project with ABS-CBN Films, Princess (Daya) Reese starring Maymay Entrata and Edward Barber. Streaming on OTT and Cable platforms on Jan. 1, 2021.

Hugs!” he wrote.

No details yet are available on how many retrenched employees were rehired.

The House of Representatives denied ABS-CBN’s application for franchise renewal last July 10. About half of the network’s 11,000 employees were reportedly let go after congressmen voted 70-11, with majority of the votes going for franchise denial.

The network, however, continued to operate digitally and now created a deal with A2Z network to be able to broadcast some of their programs on free TV. n

Katreena Philstar.com

CabiCo

MANILA — Fundamental freedoms such as freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association in the Philippines are now “severely restricted” due to ongoing attacks against activists and journalists, an international watchdog said.

In its report released ahead of the Human Rights Day, CIVICUS Monitor, the research tool of international alliance CIVICUS, downgraded the state of democratic freedoms in the Philippines from “obstructed” to “repressed.”

CIVICUS Monitor said the rating change was due in particular to the vilification of activists and targeting of human rights defenders and journalists in the country.

“The Duterte government has incrementally chipped away at civic freedoms since it came to power in 2016 but this has further eroded over the last year,” Josef Benedict, CIVICUS Monitor Asia-Pacific civic space researcher, said.

“In 2020, we have seen systematic intimidation, attacks and vilification of civil society and activists, an increased crackdown on press freedoms and a pervasive culture of impunity take root,” he added.

Documented incidents in the report include killing of peasant activist Randall Echanis and human rights activist Zara Alvarez in August. Both had been redtagged—labelled as communist rebels and enemies of state—be-

fore they were murdered.

It noted the ongoing attacks on press freedom: the shutdown of broadcast giant ABS-CBN and the cyber libel conviction of Rappler CEO Maria Ressa and former researcher-writer Reynaldo Santos Jr. Benedict said the threats and assaults against journalists have contributed to self-censorship and have had chilling effect within the media industry.

The arrest of human rights defender Teresita Naul and women’s rights activist Beatrice Belen as well as the continuing detention of Sen. Leila de Lima were also cited in the report.

In a report last June, the United Nations Human Rights said the vilification of dissent and attacks against perceived critics of the Philippine government are being “increasingly institutionalized and normalized in ways that will be very difficult to reverse.”

‘Draconian’ anti-terror law CIVICUS Monitor also said that the passage of the “draconian” the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 contributed to the further shrinking of civic spaces in the Philippines.

“There are serious concerns that the new anti-terrorism law, which has few safeguards, will institutionalize and facilitate and abuse of power,” Benedict said.

Human rights defenders, lawyers, environmentalists and other critics of the legislation stressed the broadness and vagueness of definition of terrorism could be used to silence dissent and mem-

bers of the opposition.

It has become one of the most challenged laws before the Supreme Court with at least 37 petitions filed against it.

Assessment of civil society conditions CIVICUS Monitor provides civic space ratings for 196 countries by combining several sources of data on the freedoms of association, peaceful assembly and expression.

Each nation’s civic space is rated in one of five categories: “open,” “narrowed,” “obstructed,” “repressed” or “closed.” “Open” is the highest rating possible.

“Civic space conditions are declining year on year. In 2020, 43.4% of people now live in countries rated as having repressed civic space while the percentage of people living in countries with obstructed civic space jumped from 15.8% to 18.3%,” CIVICUS Monitor said.

The Philippines joined 43 countries including Cambodia, Venezuela and Russia in the “repressed” category.

Among the countries categorized as “closed” include Asian neighbors China, Vietnam and Laos.

Top 10 violations to civic freedoms include detention of protesters, harassment, censorship, intimidation, attacks on journalists, protest disruption, restrictive law, detention of journalists, excessive force and detention of rights defenders. n

No ceasefire with Reds ever again...

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you. We are identifying you and we will identify you anytime you want. But there will be a time before my [term ends], I will name all of you, kayong lahat sa NDF,” he said.

Thankful The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) welcomed the President’s declaration.

“We are thankful to the Commander-in-Chief for heeding the AFP’s recommendation not

to declare ceasefire this holiday season and beyond,” Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesman, said in a statement. “[This is] not because we do not want peace, but because what we advocate is a genuine and lasting peace that we cannot achieve through a peace pact with the NPA that is notoriously insincere and unworthy of public trust,” he added.

The CPP, meanwhile, said Duterte’s announcement was no

surprise.

Duterte’s declaration was “no surprise” for the communist movement.

“His government’s policies have always been shaped by military generals who are obsessed with prolonging the civil war,”Marco Valbuena, CPP’s information officer, said in a statement.

“They are addicted to war because of the profits they pocket from it.” n

Activist groups marched from University of the Philippines Diliman to the Commision on Human Rights on June 4, 2020 to protest the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Act. Philstar.com photo by EC Toledo

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Features

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Food and beverage gifts from Fil-Am businesses that deliver tasting experiences at home by

Christina M. Oriel / AJPress

Though the past year has been challenging, the holiday season is an opportunity to show support for small Filipino American businesses and restaurants in the community, as well as to deliver some joy to family, friends, coworkers and others on your shopping list. Purchasing a gift card to your favorite Fil-Am restaurant, which likely has had to minimize operations to takeout and delivery due to stay at home orders, will go a long way in helping keep it afloat, while giving someone on your list a dining experience to enjoy from their homes.

Aside from a prepared meal, several Fil-Am chefs, restaurants and shops are offering edible holiday treats and sets that go beyond the traditional gift basket, and are available regionally or can be shipped nationwide. here are 12 options to choose from as gathered by the Asian Journal editorial team.

Food-themed gift boxes celebrating Filipino/a artisans Filipina American sisters Michele and Anna-Marie Josue introduced Para Sa’Yo (“For You” in Tagalog), an online shop selling curated gift sets featuring Filipino/a artists and businesses for anyone on your list. For the nostalgic, the So Filipino ($50)

box features staples Fil-Am kids grew up with like Sky Flakes and Jufran banana ketchup. The box also comes with a Vicks Vaporub! For those who start their day with a cup of joe, the But First Kape ($110) set features a pair of porcelain mugs, handwoven abaca coasters, and smallbatch, single-origin Philippine light roast Arabica Coffee from Asukar. Sets come with an added greeting card of your choice and can be viewed at shopparasayo. com.

Open up a taste of the Philippines The Filipino Food Movement has rolled out a collection of some of the best Filipino food products that you can share with your loved ones this holiday season. The “Patikim” boxes come in three types: The Pearl Edition ($160), gold Edition ($85), and Silver Edition ($60) with an array of items from signature sauces from San Francisco-based restaurant The Sarap Shop to chocolate bars from oodaalolly, which uses Philippine cacao. Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit gawad Kalinga’s Kusina ng Kalinga project, an initiative to end the hunger of Filipino children, and the FFM’s projects for the year.

The boxes can be purchased at filipinofoodmovement.org/.

Satisfy wanderlust with travel-inspired ice cream flavors In time for the holidays, SoCalbased Wanderlust Creamery is now shipping pints of their travel-inspired ice cream nationwide.

For the ice cream aficionado and jetsetter grounded at home, the over a dozen pint flavor options — from Australian Pavola to Sakura — will transport them on an international palette journey starting at $12 a pop. To get into the holiday spirit, the shop has also introduced seasonal flavors like Christmas Cookies & Sea Salt Cream, Food For the gods, and Christmas in Tokyo (bittersweet uji matcha ice cream with housemade strawberry “kit kats”).

Can’t decide on the individual flavors? The Pilipino Pint Pack comes with five pints inspired by favorite Filipino desserts like brazo de mercedes and sapin sapin. or there’s the Asian Jet Set pack with six pints that transport you through the continent from the Sticky Rice and Mango to Ube Malted Crunch. orders, which require a minimum purchase of four pints and arrive at the recipient in an insulated shipping box with dry ice, can be placed at shop.wanderlust.com.

Self-care in beverage form 2020 has been tough on everyone and more than ever, folks are seeking ways to practice self-care

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Twelve food and beverage gift options from Fil-Am businesses promise to pack in rich Filipino sweet and savory flavors.

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Some small gift options from Fil-Am businesses Santos Candles, Lu France Interiors, Kaya Essentials, FWD Floss and MAAARI.

Gifts that showcase Filipino/ Fil-Am artisanship by

aJPress

Continuing on the theme to support local and small ventures, here are several one-of-a-kind gift ideas that highlight Filipino/a talent — from scented candles to unique jewelry pieces.

Statement jewelry handmade by Filipina artisans if you’re looking to gift a jewelry piece for someone on your list, check out MAAARi, a “uniquely Filipina” modern accessories and home goods brand that pays homage to traditional design and cultural practices. the line’s onyx Lunar Drops are earrings that serve as protection against negative energy and help guide intuition, and use ethically-mined metal and sustainably-sourced earth stones. or the Sebu Ring, “a contiguous spiral ring that represents refuge and security,” made by t’boli artisans using upcycled brass and metal scraps. Most items are made to order and can be purchased at maaari. co.

Sustainable, handmade candles and home decor Launched during the pandemic, Lu France interiors (lufranceinteriors.com) is a Pinay-founded e-commerce site that curates sustainable and handmade home decor pieces that pay homage to the skills, traditions and artistry of

artisans from the Philippines and beyond. Starting at $25, the site offers soy candles in various scents from bamboo coconut to sampaguita that would be elegant stocking stuffers. other gift ideas on the site include a set of kahoy (wood) round dishes and silk charmeuses — which can be used as a scarf, tapestry or wall art — naturally dyed by the site’s founder, France, in San Diego.

An array of scents to destress Lighting a candle is an effortless pleasure to unwind after a long day. With scents ranging from jasmine and orange blossom to grapefruit and mangosteen, Los Angeles-based Santos Candles’ products (starting at $21.99) will help create a relaxing ambiance and fill your space with alluring aromas. For holiday-specific gifts, the online shop has introduced scents like Frosted Juniper (“reminiscent of a fresh morning after snowfall”) and under the Mistletoe (“a simple reminder of classic holiday traditions and festivities”). Candles can be shipped nationwide.

Self-care stocking stuffers Looking for stocking stuffers for anyone on your list? Kaya Essentials, a Pinayfounded organic coconut skincare line, has small, yet impactPAGE B3

celebrity world

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safely and conveniently at home.

Enter Droplet, a Pinay-founded line of sparkling beverages with real fruit and adaptogens, nontoxic substances derived from plants that help one’s body adapt and regulate the natural ability to respond to stressors. The “drop” in the brand’s name pays homage to Dalikamata, a clairvoyant and health goddess in Visayan pantheon, who was depicted with thousands of eyes on her body and whose tears would form morning dew drops. According to the legend, drinking the drops had healing effects, such as relieving eye problems. The new beverage company offers the “Next Level You Wellness Kit” ($20, shipping included), a starter set of Droplet’s three flavors: Pretty Balanced (passion fruit, cacao, vanilla bean and rhodiola) for anti-anxiety, energy boasting and skin-hydrating effects; Pretty Balanced (white peach, lemon verbena, moringa and ashwagandha), the go-to for a stress balancer and digestive aid; and Pretty Bright (yuzu, ginger and reishi mushroom) for a reset and mood enhancer.

“The entire idea behind Droplet was our own roots as Filipina Americans and our experiences with herbal medicine,” Celeste Perez, founder and CEo of Droplet, said in an interview with the Asian Journal. The set can be purchased through drinkdroplet. com.

Enjoy a round of sparkling craft cocktails safely at home Meeting up with friends and partaking in a round (or multiple) of drinks at a bar is an experience that will have to wait until after it’s safe to go out again. But that doesn’t mean you can’t distantly imbibe a flavorful cocktail and reminisce on nightlife from the comfort of your home. Los Angeles-based Vervet has four canned cocktails in a can full of ingredients local to the region and concocted with the city’s diversity in mind, including of course, the Filipino community. Not to miss is the Tiki Tea — a nod to the city’s Filipino bartenders and Tiki culture — with prickly pear vodka, oolong tea, lime, allspice, ginger, clove and vanilla.

“People are home, but they still want to drink well...It’s nice to crack open a bottle of wine or

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*** The controversy surrounding gerald Anderson and Julia Barretto does not simply want to die down.

And recent posts between the two won’t help, according to PEP.ph.

Recently, Barretto posted in Instagram, “Tara? @andersongeraldjr [black heart and Japanese temple gate emojis].”

Anderson answered after a few hours in a repost of the actress’ Instagram Story with, “Tara…” online observers who have been on gerald and Julia’s case since rumors of a romance between the two popped up after they paired up in the movie “Between Maybes.”

During that time, Julia was said to be in a relationship with actor garcia, while gerald had a girlfriend in the person of Bea Alonzo.

Towards the middle of 2019, talk of a Julia-Joshua breakup started surfacing, which was not confirmed nor denied by the two.

After a couple of months, a post from Bea Alonzo that touched on betrayal set of a firestorm that was followed by paparazzi shots of gerald and Julia walking together in a parking lot after they attended the birthday celebration of mutual friend and actor Rayver Cruz.

Sam Milby, a handsome-debonair actor of The Filipino Channel (TFC), is currently showing his acting chops as lead actor in the teleserye, “Ang sa Iyo ay Akin.”

Former military Sergeant Jaime Velasco and Filipino community leader Matilda Roldan celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary last Saturday, December 5 at the Velasco Residence in Stockton, CA.

Kapamilya actress Kim Chiu recently renewed her contract with Star Magic. She is shown in photo during a virtual presscon with media.

Instagram photo (@chinitaprincess)

gerald and Bea later broke up, with the actress stating in interviews that gerald just suddenly stopped talking to her (at that time, “ghosting” became a trending term). Alonzo also claimed that they had no formal breakup.

Barretto was accused as the third party who caused the gerald-Bea split, although both Julia and gerald have repeatedly denied that there is anything going on between them.

It is not the first time that Barretto and Anderson have posted on social media that showed support for each other.

The actress re-posted on her Instagram Story the logo of gerald’s resort in Botolan, Zambales and tagged the actor, although she deleted that post a few hours later. Earlier, Anderson had announced on Instagram the opening of the place, hayati Prive Resort. only time will tell what the truth is… in the meantime, many observers are firm in their belief that the two have a relationship and are not about to let go of the circumstances that led to the alleged involvement.

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KAPAMILYA actress Kim Chiu recently renewed her exclusive Star Magic contract with ABSCBN which keeps her in the network which the actress has credited for her successes in life.

In a video Kim posted, as reported by The Philippine Star, Kim screamed, “I’m so very happy! Sums up my emotions today!

SALAMAT ABSCBN! Sasamahan ko kayo sa hirap man o sa ginhawa isang pamilya tayo! Walang iwanan! Maghahatid ng liwanag at ligaya.”

“Proud Kapamilya. Always a Kapamilya and still a Kapamilya,” the actress added. her decision to renew her contract with the network, according to Kim in a virtual press conference, stems from her deep gratitude to ABS-CBN for everything that the network has done to help her succeed in life. That includes having had the ability to build a house for her family and helping send her siblings to school.

“Ngayon lang ako naluha. Siguro kasi ang daming nangyari, ang daming mga open doors and do’n ako nasubok, but I still chose to be a Kapamilya. Siyemre noong lockdown nasa bahay lang tayo, and na-realize ko ‘yung bahay ko galing sa ABS-CBN,” Kim was quoted as saying. ‘Yung mga kapatid ko okay naman sila, tapos na sila nang pag-aaral and it’s all because of ABS-CBN.”

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What is ‘birthright citizenship’?

Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ DONALD Trump has often stated he wants to end “birthright citizenship” for children born in the U.S. to undocumented parents. He is obviously against “birth tourism,” where pregnant women, about to give birth, enter the U.S. solely for their child to be born in the U.S. and therefore be considered a U.S. citizen. He also opposes undocumented immigrants coming across the border (or overstaying their visas) and giving birth, making their children automatic U.S. citizens.

There have been millions of children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants, who have long been considered U.S. citizens. Many of those children have even gone on to perhaps petition their parents when they reached 21 years of age.

But what is birthright citizenship, and what is the argument for precluding children of undocumented immigrants from being considered U.S. citizens even if born within the U.S.?

We start with the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which provides the foundation for birthright citizenship: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside.”

(Emphasis added) The key phrase in the 14th amendment is that persons born in the U.S are considered U.S. citizens only if they are “subject to the jurisdiction” of the

U.S. If a person is not subject to U.S. jurisdiction, they should not be considered a U.S. citizen at birth.

The phrase “subject to the jurisdiction” of the U.S. has always been interpreted to pertain to citizenship claims by the children of diplomats, ambassadors, and hostile combatants. For example, ambassadors and other diplomats enjoy diplomatic “immunity” while in the U.S., and are therefore not subject to U.S. jurisdiction. If their children are born in the U.S., they are not considered automatic U.S. citizens.

The argument goes that if a person is out of status, or owes allegiance to another country, they are not subject to U.S. jurisdiction. Therefore, if their children are born in the U.S., the children are not birthright citizens.

However, I do not believe Trump would be successful in attempting to end birthright citizenship. A constitutional amendment to the 14th Amendment is remote. If he tries an executive order, Biden would immediately rescind it.

In addition, the U.S. Supreme Court has a history of deciding cases upholding birthright citizenship. As early as 1804, the U.S. Supreme Court decided a case, where they held that a person born in the U.S. was a U.S. citizen, even if the person later on lived most of his life outside the U.S. Birth in the U.S. was enough to convey citizenship.

In conclusion, unless there is a constitutional amendment to the 14th Amendment, I do not believe birthright citizenship will change. If a child is born in the U.S., and their parents are not diplomats, the child will be considered a U.S. citizen at birth. Once they reach 21 years of age, they could petition their

parents. However, whether their parents will be eligible to adjust status (apply for a green card) in the U.S. may be a different issue.

Being out of status, the parents’ manner of entry into the U.S. and their immigration history could affect the child’s ability to petition their parents.

If you have a U.S. born child over 21 years of age, and are considering having that child petition you, I would recommend that you consult with an attorney who can evaluate your situation, including your immigration history and status, to determine eligibility and the best course of action for you to legalize your status. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

Each case is different, and results may depend on the facts of the particular case.

The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw, Twitter @GurfinkelLaw and YouTube: US Immigration TV Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-487-3465 (866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES ∙ SAN FRANCISCO ∙ NEW YORK ∙ PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)

7 Filipino stars join Forbes Asia’s Top 100 Digital List

By Cristina

Eloisa Inquirer.net

BaClig

SEVEN of the most popular names in the country’s entertainment industry were included in this year’s Forbes 100 list of AsiaPacific’s most influential celebrities on social media.

Forbes Asia on Tuesday, December 8 released its 100 Digital Stars list which features singers, bands, film, and TV stars with huge social media influence.

Forbes Asia also noted that the list included celebrities who “have also used their influence to support worthy causes, especially those with a COVID-19 focus.”

Among the notable stars mentioned in the list were Angel Locsin, Marian Rivera-Dantes, Kim Chiu, Anne Curtis, Vice Ganda, Kathryn Bernardo, and Sarah Geronimo.

One of the most familiar faces in the list was Locsin, who also landed in Forbes Asia‘s “Heroes of Philanthropy” list last year. In a statement, Forbes cited Locsin’s COVID-19 initiative which raised a total of P11.3 million and aided 135 hospitals.

beer, but it’s really such a limited experience and we want to bring something complex and that tastes like it was made in front of you,” Alex Rosenblum, who is half Filipino and one of the Vervet co-founders, told the Asian Journal. The cocktails, which start at $5.99 a can, be purchased at select stores in the Los Angeles area or can be delivered/shipped to your gift recipient online at drinkvervet.com.

Artisanal chocolates that taste as beautiful as they look Giving chocolate as a gift is never a bad idea, but instead of the usual big-name brands, turn to a small batch purveyor that molds and designs each piece by hand. Romeo Chocolates, based in Long Beach, California, offers nationwide shipping on perfectly boxed and wrapped gift sets featuring its truffles with a flavor range from Tanduay rum to Calamansi Mojito. Have someone on your list who considers chocolate a main food group? The shop offers a subscription gift box starting at $48 with a mix of fine chocolates and local fine goods each month. Orders can be placed at Romeochocolates.com.

Spread kindness with an assorted box of cookies In the midst of the pandemic, we saw dozens of examples of Fil-Ams starting businesses from home, whether it’s mask-making or desserts with Filipino flavors.

Young Filipina Americans Malia and Kailani started Conscious Kid Cookies from their own kitchen to “change the world through sharing kindness through cookies.”

Now their venture operates out of a commercial kitchen, and cookies can be shipped nationwide by ordering at consciouskidscookies.com. Cookie flavors range from the classic chocolate chip to

Citizen Pinoy’s Christmas ‘parol’ special answers more of your US immigration questions this Sunday LEADING U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel and the Citizen Pinoy family recognize that Christmas is a time for family. Many Filipinos in the U.S. are still waiting for the day when they are finally reunited with their family in America.

While waiting for that day, Attorney Gurfinkel works hard to help people realize that dream of uniting (or legalizing their status) by providing helpful information to Kapamilya.

Jon from Riverside, California

Angel Locsin Photo from Instagram_@therealangellocsin

Anne Curtis Photo from Instagram_@annecurtissmith

Meanwhile, 36-year-old actress and mother Marian Rivera-Dantes was acknowledged by Forbes for her large social media following.

She was described as the Philippines’ most popular celebrity on Facebook, with a total of 23 million followers.

Actress Kim Chiu grabbed a spot on the list after she turned her viral “Bawal Lumabas” gaffe

into a new single. The Classroom Song became an instant hit and has over nine million Youtube views. Chiu also used the opportunity to raise money for pandemic relief.

Popstar royalty Sarah Geronimo, like Locsin and Chiu, also raised roughly $5 million during a COVID-19 benefit concert.

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Filipino-inspired like pandan, and can be purchased individually or in boxes by the dozen, starting at $36. Ten percent of the proceeds benefit No Kids Hungry.

Cook a full Filipino dish with sauces from a jar For the individual who wants to make classic Filipino dishes while in a time crunch, a new Fil-Am business is making it easier with a line of bottled simmer sauces. Fila Manila’s Variety Pack ($29) features three sauces — Adobo, Kare Kare, and Caldereta — which are gluten-free and have no added sugar or artificial colors. All the home chef has to do is add water, protein and veggies of choice and the jar of sauce and simmer until cooked. Orders ship free nationwide at filamanila.com.

A surprise to satisfy Pinoy snack cravings while giving back Recreate the pasalubong experience by sending a box of beloved snacks and ingredients to someone who needs to satisfy their appetite for Pinoy flavors.

E-commerce site Filiflavors.com offers the “sopresa” (surprise) box filled with sweet and savory items. For a limited offer, use the code PR10OFF until 12/18/2020 to receive 10% off your Filiflavors order. Additionally, for the holiday season, a free pack of Filipino Spaghetti Sauce will be included in your order.

“Filiflavors aims to provide you with the most convenient and delightful experience to get a taste of what the Philippines has to offer,” said Bianca Trinidad, Filiflavors founder and owner. A percentage of each sale is donated to San Francisco-based nonprofit Support for Families of Children with Disabilities.

Insta-worthy pancakes for Christmas morning

Noche Buena on Christmas Eve is considered the staple feast in Filipino tradition, featuring a feast from ham to rice-based desserts. But what about for Christmas morning after opening gifts?

Though Ninong’s Cafe in Northridge, CA closed its doors recently, their photogenic ube pancakes can be made at home with the Breakfast Regalo ($48.50) in partnership with Bakersfield’s Umaga Coffee. The set comes with a 12 oz bag of Single Sourced Bokod Arabica Medium Dark Roast (either beans or grounds); the pancake mix, which only requires water to cook; two jars of Ninong’s Ube Cookie Butter which would pair perfectly with the pancake stack or on anything else; and a Maligayang Pasko greeting card from Manila Oriental. The special can be purchased at umagacoffee.com.

Butters for pan de sal and more For those who want to get creative with what to put inside of a pan de sal, Chef Barb Batiste of Big Boi offers a Filipino Butter Jar Sampler ($40), which comes in a set of three butters — Ube, Ensaymada, and Buko Pandan.

Slather them on pancakes, waffles, and anything else you can think of. Orders for nationwide shipping can be placed at www. shopbigboi.com/.

Lumpia delivered to your door Those in the greater Los Angeles/Orange County area can fry Petite Peso’s lumpia and enjoy them from the comfort of their homes. The Downtown LA-based restaurant is offering frozen lumpia, either pork or impossible meat straight to the gift recipient’s door in the Southern California region starting at 25 pieces for $20. Orders can be placed at pesogoods.com.

is a dual citizen and he just returned to the U.S. after spending nine years in the Philippines. He brought his four-year old daughter to the U.S., as she was considered a U.S. citizen at birth. Jon would like to know what is the fastest way to bring the mother of his daughter to the US: is it via a fiancée visa? Or should he marry her first and petition her as his wife?

Hildi from Taguig, Metro Manila in the Philippines asks about her father’s petition for her in

1997. Unfortunately, her father died in 2017 and the petition only became current in 2019.

Can Hildi and her two adult children still to come to America on her father’s petition?

These questions and more will be answered on brand-new holiday episode of “Citizen Pinoy: Your Tanong, My Sagot” this Sunday, December 13, at 6:15 pm PST/EST (9:15 pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

(Advertising Supplement)

Gifts that showcase Filipino/Fil-Am...

PAGE B2 ful products from calamansi lip balms to charcoal salt milk baths.

The site (kayaessentials.com) has also partnered with various Filipino artisans that produce goods like Rags2Riches’ face masks (using fabrics sourced from indigenous communities) and parol ornaments featuring upcycled fabric. Every purchase made through Kaya Essentials

Food and beverage gifts from Fil-Am...

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‘CITIZEN PINOY’ ANSWERS QUESTIONS FROM KAPAMILYA IN THE PHILIPPINES AND IN CALIFORNIA ON A PRE-CHRISTMAS EPISODE THIS SUNDAY. Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (left) renews his commitment and public service of bringing families together by providing relevant immigration information to Kapamilya. Hildi from Taguig, Metro Manila in the Philippines (top right) asks about the 1997 petition of her father, who died in 2017. The petition finally became current in 2019 and she wonders if there is still hope for her and her adult children to come to America? Jon from Riverside, California (bottom right) is a dual citizen who just returned to the U.S. after spending nine years in the Philippines.

He was able to bring his four-year old daughter to the U.S., as she was considered a U.S. citizen at birth. Jon wants to know the fastest way to bring his daughter’s mother to the US: via a fiancée visa or should he marry her first and then petition her as his wife? These questions and more will be answered by Atty. Gurfinkel on the “Parol” (Christmas Lantern) episode of “Citizen Pinoy: Your Tanong, My Sagot” this Sunday, December 13 at 6:15 pm PST/EST (9:15 pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

(Advertising Supplement)

provides a school meal for a child in the U.S. through No Kid Hungry and in the Philippines through Gawad Kalinga.

Eco-friendly dental hygiene Floss may seem like a mundane gift, but it can be a tiny reminder to the recipient to take time out of their day for some dental care beyond brushing. FWD Floss

is a new Fil-Am business that uses activated charcoal for enhanced cleansing, and is packaged with earth friendly recyclable materials to reduce single plastic waste. Starting at $5.99 per pack, the floss can be purchased at fwdfloss.com. Five percent of each purchase is donated to non-profit organizations that provide dental care for those in need.

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december 11-14, 2020 • NOrcAL ASIAN JOUrNAL

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS COVID-19 news: As of December 8, 2020, 12:48 GMT, worldwide, there were 68,057,474 cases with 1,553,408 deaths; USA, 15,371,268, with 290,649 deaths; and The Philippines, 442,785, with 8,670 deaths. In the USA, 42 States showed continued rise in COVID-19 cases. Only 8 appear (Iowa, Missouri, Minnesota, North Dakota, New Mexico, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming) more stable. Officials across the USA “are rolling out a patchwork of restrictions on mask and social distancing…

Restrictions are ramping up in many areas as cases surge nationwide. Health officials warn that easing restrictions too soon could bring new outbreaks, but many states forged ahead.”

Let’s be wise, disciplined, and complaint to shorten this pandemic. It is, after all, ONLY in “(We) The People”’s hands.

The genetically altered yellow fever vaccine (proven effective against yellow fever for 80 years, among 500 million worldwide who developed life-long immunity) was highly effective in animals, reports NATURE journal.

If it passes clinical trials, the new single-shot vaccine would have some advantages over other SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, like those of Pfizer-BioNTech’s 2 shot (one month apart) vaccine. The Pfizer-B vaccine has been distributed last Monday for all first responders and seniors and other vulnerable persons first, then for the public starting early next year. This inspires hope among peoples around the world.

The Community Healthcare System hospitals in Northwest Indiana are using “a new antibody therapy treatment called Bamlanivimab to treat COVID19 and reduce its symptoms.”

This monoclonal antibody treatment is given as an hour-long intravenous infusion to patients with mild to moderate COVID19 symptoms who are at higher risk for related complications.

The U.S. FDA has issued “emergency use authorization for the yet-to-be-approved medication, because use of this drug showed “a decrease in viral loads and reduced rates of symptoms and hospitalization.” Further

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SB19 ranks 6th among Billboard’s Top Social 50 Artists of 2020

COVID, Ghrelin, orgasm... research and clinical trials are required to insure its effectiveness and safety. Other drugs for prevention and treatment of COVID-19 are in the pipeline.

What controls the urge to eat?

While there are other hormones involved, there are two main ones, which signal the brain when we are hungry or full. The hunger hormone is Ghrelin, which is secreted by our guts (stomach and intestines). When its level goes up, we feel hungry and have the urge to eat. The level of Ghrelin goes up when we get less sleep or not enough sleep. This is the reason why those who are trying to lose weight should get adequate amount (about 8 hours) of sleep. An imbalance meal and stress also elevate the Ghrelin level. Food deprivation obviously increases the Ghrelin level, hence it is better to keep the level of this hormone on an even keel and not fluctuate too much by eating regularly (or even more than 3 times a day) but at a controlled total calorie ceiling, to maintain health and body weight. So, starving oneself is not a good way to lose weight, since this will lead to a Ghrelin “boomerang” in the latter part of the day.

The satiety or “counter” hormone, which is called Leptin, signals the brain when to stop eating. It controls the appetite. This “satiety hormone” is produced by fat cells in the body. When a person loses weight, the leptin level in the blood stream also goes down. As a result, there is less signal to the brain for the individual to stop eating, resulting in a “rebound” weight gain. The best strategy in losing and maintaining a desired weight level is to lose in a slow and steady pace, about one to two pounds a week, and not more. In this manner, there will still be an effective level of leptin in the body to control the urge to eat.

Does sun exposure make the skin age faster?

Yes, constant exposure to the sun makes the skin age prematurely, especially on the face.

This is called dermatoheliosis or extrinsic aging. The skin changes may appear like those seen among patients after undergoing radiation therapy for cancer for a period of time. This condition is seen more commonly among North American and European people who love to bathe in the

sun. Asian women have been noted to have younger-looking skin because they use umbrellas and hats a lot to protect their face from the direct sunlight, even on the beaches. And they are really the wiser and the healthier for that, because this practice also reduces the incidence of ultraviolet-induced skin cancers among Asian women compared to their American and European counterpart.

Is camote tops “cure” for dengue?

The internet abounds with claims that camote (sweet potato) tops extract “is effective in preventing or in curing dengue….because they are excellent sources of antioxidative compounds, mainly polyphenolics, which may protect the human body from oxidative stress that is associated with many diseases including cancer and cardiovascular diseases, and that it boosts the immune system.”

To put things in their proper perspective, there has been no original scientific research, much less randomized, doubleblind, clinical studies to support this claim. Indeed, it would be terrific if this were true. Hopefully, future investigations in the laboratory and in human will prove this to be so.

In the meantime, for the safety of the patient, most of them children, it is best to rely on the currently proven and accepted medical therapy, rather than abandoning this scientific treatment and dangerously gambling on camote top extracts.

Does frequent orgasm prolong life?

The answer appears to be yes.

A study conducted in 1997 and published in the British Medical Journal, involving 918 men aged 45 to 59, who were followed up for ten years, revealed that “those who ejaculated less than once a month were twice as likely to die during the study than men who had orgasm at least twice a week.” In another report, sex was found to have some degree of protection from prostate cancer, all other lifestyle factors being equal. Sex also reduces stress and produces endogenous secretion of “happy hormones” in our body, which lessen depression and even strengthens the immune system. The more you know about the human body and its mind-boggling intricate physiology, the more you marvel at its creation and “complicated-

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

by Ian

BIong Inquirer.net

FILIPINO group SB19 has claimed the No. 6 spot on Billboard’s Top Social 50 Artists of 2020 chart, making them the only Filipino act in the top 10.

“Thank you for the recognition, @billboardcharts And of course, to our beloved A’TIN, thank you for all of the unimaginable plot twists in our life. Too grateful to have you. Stay amazing, guys!” the group stated on Instagram on Friday, December 4.

K-pop superstar groups, meanwhile, dominated the top 5, with BTS once again claiming the top spot, followed by Exo and NCT 127 at Nos. 2 and 3, while Seventeen claimed No. 5. American singer Ariana Grande landed in No. 4.

The Social 50 chart ranks musical artists based on their online popularity by tracking their activity on social media platforms.

SB19’s achievement came just after the group claimed the top spot on Billboard’s Lyric-

Filipino boyband SB19

Find Global chart for their hit song “Alab” late last month. The group also ranked 6th on the LyricFind chart in the United States, as seen on Billboard’s website.

Prior to landing in the Top Social 50 Artists of 2020 chart, the group already previously entered the Social 50 list at number 3 back in July, just behind BTS and EXO. SB19 is the first and only Fili-

Photo from Facebook_@SB19Official

pino group to make it to the Social 50 chart so far. They debuted at the 28th spot back in December 2019.

In November also last year, SB19 also made it to Billboard’s Next Big Sound chart. The P-pop group, composed of Sejun, Josh, Stell, Ken and Justin, was trained by a Korean entertainment company before debuting in the Philippines in 2018.

7 Filipino stars join Forbes Asia’s Top 100 Digital...

PAGE B3 Dubbed by Forbes as “Philippines’ most popular Instagram celebrity,” Anne Curtis joined her fellow celebrities in the list. Curtis currently has almost 16 million followers online and endorsement deals with popular brands such as Jollibee, Louis Vuitton, and Pantene.

Actress Kathryn Bernardo and comedian and TV show host Vice Ganda were also listed for their notable achievements in the industry.

“The inaugural Forbes Asia’s 100 Digital Stars list couldn’t have come at a more relevant Sarah Geronimo time. Artists rely on social media platforms to connect and communicate with fans, especially in the absence of live entertainment due to COVID-19 restrictions around the region,” Forbes Asia’s editor Rana Wehbe Watson said in a statement.

“The 100 celebrities highlighted on the list range in age from 20 to 78, proving that social media influence is a cross-generational phenomenon,” Watson added.

Kathryn Bernardo

Photo from Instagram_@justsarahg

Photo from Instagram_@bernardokathryn

The main objective of this column is to *** ly simple perfection,” which, to Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac date, no man-made machine, no educate and inspire people live a healthier matter how sophisticated, can lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and achieve a happier and more productive and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international equal or even come close to. *** 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. ***

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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.

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medical lecturer/author, a Health Public Advocate, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian and anti-graft foundation in the United States. Visit our websites: philipSchua.com and FUN8888.com Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • deCembeR 11-17, 2020

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december 11-14, 2020 • NOrcAL ASIAN JOUrNAL

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