121323 - Southern California Midweek Edition

DECEMBER 13-15, 2023 Volume 33 - No. 99 • 12 Pages

PH, US vow closer coordination amid worsening China acts

DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

$5.5 million in stolen wages returned to residential caregivers

by MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN, ALEXIS ROMERO

officials of the Philippines and the United States held a teleconference last Monday, December 11 to MANILA — With China reportedly becoming discuss the need for them to work more closely in bolder in harassing Filipinos and committing illegal addressing pressing security issues in the region.

The phone meeting between Armed Forces of activities in Philippine territorial waters, top military Philstar.com

Settlement makes California’s largest residential care facility wage theft case

the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and Gen. Charles Brown Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the U.S., came after a weekend of tension in the West Philippine Sea where  PAGE 3

Marcos says Philippines ‘undeterred’ by China’s actions in West PH Sea

LOS ANGELES - One hundred and fortyeight individuals who worked at Adat Shalom Board and Care for the Elderly in the San Fernando Valley recovered $5.5 million in wages stolen from them while they were working as caregivers.

Through conversations with the workers, organizers with the Pilipino Workers Center discovered that Adat Shalom managers and owners were committing wage theft.

An investigation into Adat Shalom by the state Labor Commissioner’s Office found that workers at six Adat Shalom locations in Southern California, the majority of whom are Filipino immigrants, worked 24-hour shifts, six days per week for as little as $2.40/hour with no overtime. Workers were required to

by GAEA KATREENA CABICO Philstar.com

 PAGE 4

Who are America’s new ethnic voters?

AT a Dec. 8 Ethnic Media Services briefing, experts discussed who these new ethnic voters are, what motivates them, and how their affiliations compare to their white counterparts.

AAPI party preference “When it comes to candidates, voters’ party identification shapes their opinions on issues more than the other way around,” said Karthick Ramakrishnan, public policy professor at UC Riverside, AAPI Data founder and California 100 co-founder.

“For example,” he continued, “no matter your opinions on taxes or environmental protection, your Republican, Democratic or Independent identity will likely shape them over time.”

Among AAPI voters, he found that Vietnamese Americans tend to identify as most strongly Republican, while Japanese and Indian Americans tend to identify as most strongly Democratic. “So it’s interesting that Indian Americans like Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley have risen to such prominence in Republican leadership, far from Indian American voter opinion,” he noted.

Nevertheless, Ramakrishnan added, the 2016 election and the subsequent four

AGENTS OF CHANGE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday, December 11 led the grand opening of the 18th National Scout Jamboree in Iloilo as he expressed hope that the national scouting event could inspire the country’s youth to become active and productive members of society.

Malacañang photos

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government remains “undeterred” despite China’s continued harassment of Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea. “The aggression and provocations perpetrated by the China Coast Guard (CCG) and their Chinese Maritime Militia against our vessels and personnel over the weekend have only further steeled our determination to defend and protect our nation's sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea,” Marcos said in a statement late Sunday, December 10.

He stressed that China’s “illegal presence in our waters and dangerous actions against our citizens is an outright and blatant violation of international law and the rules-based international order.”

Manila and Beijing have traded accusations over the collisions of their vessels.  PAGE 3

48% of Filipinos think quality of life will improve next year

by ADRIAN PARUNGAO Inquirer.net

MANILA — The Social Weather Stations (SWS) said on Tuesday, December 12 that majority of adult Filipinos think that quality of life will improve in the next 12 months.

According to its survey from September 28 to October 1, there are 48 percent of adult Filipinos who think that quality of life will improve in the next 12 months, which the SWS termed as “optimists.”

Meanwhile, 40 percent said that quality of life will remain unchanged in the next 12 months, termed by the SWS as “no change,”

while six percent said that quality of life will worsen in the next 12 months.

The remaining percent of people did not give an answer.

The SWS also reported that the Net Personal Optimism score in September 2023 was +42 which it classified as “excellent.”

This is an increase from the previous Net Personal Optimism score in June 2023, which was +41, and classified as “excellent.”

SWS added that Net Personal Optimism score increased in Luzon outside Metro Manila, which it termed “Balance Luzon,” DOT Secretary Christina Frasco from +44 in June 2023 to +50, and in Mindanao, from +36 in June 2023 to +43.  PAGE 4

Photo from Facebook/@DepartmentOfTourism

DOT surpasses 5 million mark in Third petition filed vs Sara Duterte’s secret funds reaches SC foreign tourist arrivals for 2023  PAGE 4

by IAN LAQUI Philstar.com

MANILA — Current and former lawmakers from the Makabayan Bloc on Monday, December 11 filed a petition for certiorari, challenging Vice President Sara Duterte's allocation of P125 million for confidential and intelligence funds (CIF).

Among the petitioners include Rep. France Castro (ACT-Teachers), Rep. Arlene Brosas (Gabriela), Rep. Raoul Manuel (Kabataan), Bayan Former Bayan Muna Representatives Neri Colmenares, Carlos Zarate, together with Rep. France Castro Muna Chairman Neri Colmena(ACT-Teachers) and Rep. Arlene Brosas (Gabriela) at the Supreme Court filing a petition against the res, former Bayan Muna Par2022 Confidential and Intelligence Funds of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Philstar.com photo tylist Representatives Carlos

LOYALTY MEMBER

NOT YET A MEMBER?

SIGN UP & SAVE!

TEXT BONUS TO 87573 OR ASK OUR CASHIERS ON HOW TO

11% Off

f 23% Of

ISLAND PACIFIC PORK SPECIALS

READY TO COOK

PORK LONG FEET

CEBUCHON (LECHON BELLY)

2.29

$

7.99

$

/LB

WAS $2.99/LB | SAVE 70¢

ff 20% O

ff 29% O

Fresh CATCH

FARM | ECUADOR

JUMBO WHITE SHRIMP HEAD-ON

BEEF SPECIALS

ff 40% O

ff 36% O

Low Price!

Fresh CATCH

FARM | CANADA

PREMIUM ATLANTIC SALMON STEAK

7.99 $4.99 $6.99

BEEF TONGUE

$

/LB

WAS $8.99/LB | SAVE $1.00

/LB

/LB

/LB

WAS $9.99/LB | SAVE $2.00

WAS $6.99/LB | SAVE $2.00

WAS $10.99/LB | SAVE $4.00

PROMO PERIOD | DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2023

WILD | USA

CALIFORNIA SQUID

2.99

$

/LB

WAS $4.99/LB | SAVE $2.00

Zarate, Ferdinand Gaite, Eufemia Cullamat and Raymond Palatino.

This will be the third petition against Duterte’s confidential and intelligence funds.

The petitioners urged the Supreme Court to review the constitutionality of transferring the Office of the President's contingency fund to the Office of the Vice President's confidential and intelligence funds, questioning both the transfer itself and its subsequent utilization.

“Petitioners assail the constitutionality of the release of  PAGE 4

by ZACARIAN SARAO Inquirer.net

MANILA — Department of Tourism (DOT) has already breached the 5-million mark in international tourist arrivals for 2023.

According to DOT Secretary Christina Frasco, international tourist arrivals as of December 12 have been logged at 5,067,752.

“With the holidays already here, we are confident we will further breach the target that was set this year at 4.8 million international arrivals,” said Frasco at the presentation of the accomplishments of DOT. She added that with this

development, tourism has contributed nearly P440 billion to the Philippine economy in 2023.

In 2022, 2.6 million foreign tourists visited the country.

In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourists numbered to over 163,000.

Frasco said the country’s recovery from the pandemic, in terms of international tourist arrivals, from January to November 2023 is at 65 percent.

She cited the barometer of United Nations’ World Tourism Organization.

The 65 percent recovery rate is higher than the 62 percent found among nations in the Asia Pacific  PAGE 3

2 DECEMBER 13-15, 2023 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 13-15, 2023 3

(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com

From the Front Page

PH, US vow closer coordination...

PAGE 1

LOCAL SYMBOL. The kalesa or karitela (horse-drawn carriage), usually two-wheeled, gets an upgrade as it waits for tourist passengers in Intramuros, Manila on Monday, Dec. 11. The famous Filipino mode of transportation of yesteryears can also be found near other tourist destinations like the National Museum, Rizal Park, and along Roxas Boulevard.

PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr.

DOT surpasses 5 million mark in foreign...

PAGE 1 been registered at P439 billion. region.

The amount translates to Frasco also bared from 95 percent of the 458 billion January 1 to November 30, 2023, receipts recorded for 2019. international visitor receipts have Frasco also reported tourism

in the country has provided more than 5 million jobs for Filipinos.

Such record is equivalent to 11 percent of the entire national employment. g

Marcos says Philippines ‘undeterred’ by...

PAGE 1

The Philippine Coast Guard accused the CCG of firing water cannons and ramming its patrol boat and supply vessels during a resupply mission to troops stationed on BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded warship that serves as the country’s outpost in the

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stressed that China’s “illegal presence in our waters and dangerous actions against our citizens is an outright and blatant violation of international law and the rules-based international order.”

Malacañang file photo

WPS. This caused “severe damage” to the engine of M/L Kalayaan, one of the supply boats.

China, however, claimed that a Philippine vessel intentionally collided with its ship.

The Atin Ito Coalition also announced Sunday that the convoy of civilian boats planning to deliver provisions to Filipino fishermen and troops in the WPS had to abort its trip after being “constantly shadowed” by Chinese vessels.

The incidents occurred a day after the CCG used water cannons to obstruct vessels of the fisheries bureau from approaching Filipino fishing boats near Bajo de Masinloc off Zambales.

‘Ayungin is ours’ Marcos reiterated that Ayungin Shoal is within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone and that Bajo de Masinloc is a sovereign Philippine territory and an integral part of the

Chinese coast guard and militia ships harassed and tried to drive away Philippine vessels on humanitarian missions in Ayungin Shoal and Bajo de Masinloc.

“The two agreed to maintain close coordination amidst worsening illegal activities of the China Coast Guard targeting rotation and re-provisioning missions and patrols of Philippine government vessels in the West Philippine Sea,” AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said.

“They also discussed mutual strategic security interests and opportunities for increased military cooperation,” Trinidad added.

The AFP said the call reaffirms the military’s commitment to the Philippine-U.S. alliance under the framework of the Mutual Defense Treaty as well as to upholding a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Interviewed over GMA’s Unang Hirit, Brawner denounced China’s lying about the incidents over the weekend.

“They (Chinese) distorted the story. I was there myself on board the supply boat Unaizah Mae, and I personally witnessed their harassment,” Brawner said.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, in an earlier interview, noted that despite China’s in-

creasing aggression, the Philippines would continue to assert its rights.

“We are going to comply with the president’s instructions to us to be firm in enforcing international law, by our own selves and more importantly with partner and like-minded countries of the world,” he said.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff website said that phone conversation between the two top military officials was the first since Gen. Brown became the chairman.

“The leaders also discussed mutual strategic security interests and opportunities for increased military cooperation, including enhancing maritime cooperation, improving interoperability and information sharing, and increasing training and exercises,” the JCS said in its post.

No MDT trigger Meanwhile, National Security Council assistant director-general Jonathan Malaya said China’s latest water cannon attack against Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea won’t trigger the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between Manila and Washington.

“No, it cannot because it is not an armed attack. Under the MDT, it has to be an armed attack on a public vessel,” Malaya said in a chance interview last Monday at Malacañang.

“It is not an armed attack. it

archipelago.

“No one but the Philippines has a legitimate right or legal basis to operate anywhere in the West Philippine Sea,” he said.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including waters and islands near the shores of its neighbors, and has ignored an international tribunal ruling in 2016 that its assertions have no legal basis.

Relations between Manila and Beijing have deteriorated under Marcos, who has sought to improve ties with traditional ally Washington and push back against Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea. His predecessor Rodrigo Duterte led a foreign policy pivot to China in exchange for investment pledges.

Marcos added that he has ordered the uniformed services to conduct their missions with The Mass for a civilian-led Christmas convoy bound for Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine utmost regard for their safety, Sea was disturbed after the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) followed MV Kapitan Felix Oca during “yet proceed with a mission- their journey to Lawak Island on Sunday, December 10.

Philstar.com photo by Michael Varcas oriented mindset.” g

Huwag maghintay para mapangalagaan ang iyong kinabukasan.

KUMILOS NA NGAYON

1-866-861-6809

CaMortgageRelief.org Higit pa sa kaluwagan sa utang

cannot be considered an act of war, according to our lawyers,” he added.

Signed by the Philippines and the U.S. in 1951, the MDT seeks to enhance the defense capabilities of the two countries and allow them to jointly develop their capabilities to counter external armed attacks.

The Visiting Forces Agreement, which allows Filipino and American military forces to hold joint military drills in the Philippines, and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement which provides the U.S. access to agreed Philippine locations, are offshoots of the treaty.

In their recent statements, U.S. officials reiterated that an armed attack on Philippine armed forces, public vessels or aircraft in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea, would trigger Washington’s mutual defense commitments. g

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITY IFB NO. EP236-24 SAND SILO AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking Bids for the replacement of sand silo air filters. Bid documents may be downloaded at SCRRA's website at http:// www.metrolinktrains.com/ contracts.

The contract to be awarded will be funded in part by grants under the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration and is subject to a DBE goal of 2.96%.

For further information contact: Tammi Phillips, Contract and Compliance Administrator, at PhillipsT@ scrra.net.

12/13/23 CNS-3760326# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

4 DECEMBER 13-15, 2023 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USa

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

19 suspected child predators, human traffickers arrested

LOS ANGELES – Undercover agents have arrested 19 suspected child predators and human traffickers during a threeday operation in Kings County, California, authorities announced last week.

The operation, dubbed “White Elephant,” was conducted from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1. The agents targeted adults seeking to sexually exploit children and victims of sex trafficking, according to a news release from California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office.

The human trafficking operation included state, federal and local law enforcement agencies. Investigators spoke to numerous individuals online and on mobile apps known to foster this kind of illegal activity.

Along with the 19 arrests, the Kings County Sheriff’s Office BACK FROM THE QUAKE. Learners at the Piedad Central Elementary School in Davao City return to school on Monday, Dec. 11 after the City Government of Davao lifted the suspension of in-person classes from kindergarten to Grade 12 in all public elementary and secondary schools. The city government suspended the classes after the 6.9 earthquake on Dec. 2.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

P125 million confidential funds by the Office of the President (OP) to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) in late December 2022, as well as the request, receipt, and use of this amount by the latter,” the petitioners said.

The disclosed funds, totaling P125 million, was reportedly utilized by the OVP within an 11-day period, according to the Commission on Audit (COA).

The petitioners also asked the high tribunal to make the CIF auditable by COA. “Petitioners likewise pray that the Honorable Court direct the Commission on Audit to audit as a regular fund the ‘Confidential Funds’ expended by the Respondent OVP in 2022,” the petition read.

“Petitioners further seek the restitution of the P125 Million unlawfully used as confidential funds by the OVP,” it added.

In 2015, a joint circular involving the COA, Department of Budget and Management, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Governance Commission for Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations, and the Department of National Defense mandated national agencies,

local governments, and government-owned corporations to "prepare" physical and financial plans for their confidential and intelligence fund requests. The plans needed to detail estimated amounts for each project, activity and program.

The second petition against Duterte’s confidential and intelligence funds requested the nullification of the circular.

The first petition, filed on November 7, raised concerns about the constitutionality of shifting the Office of the President’s contingency fund to the OVP’s confidential funds, suggesting that only the legislature has the authority.

The SC asked Duterte and other officials to respond to the said petition.

The second petition, filed by former SC Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, along with lawyers and priests, urged the SC to void Executive Order No. 2 and Commission on Audit Joint Circular 2015-01. Thesregulations enable the utilization, transfer and disbursement of confidential funds without subjecting them to audit.

The third petition makes similar points as the first two, highlighting that the OVP lacks

“Whether it’s for sex or labor, abusing power to force or coerce someone into doing something against their will is wrong,” he said.

“At the California Department of Justice, we’re committed to standing up for survivors, disrupting and dismantling human trafficking rings, and securing justice.”

In California, human trafficking is prevalent in the hospitality, commercial sex, domestic work and construction industries.

Victims of human trafficking are also found among migrant and seasonal agricultural workers, providers of residential care and in the garment sector.

Victims of child sexual exploitation and human trafficking can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888. (Inquirer.net)

48% of Filipinos think quality of life will...

PAGE 1

Third petition filed vs Sara Duterte’s secret...

PAGE 1

said deputies also rescued two females during the human trafficking operation.

“In California, we do not tolerate the sexual exploitation and human trafficking of children,” said Bonta.

The Human Trafficking and Sexual Predator Apprehension Team within the Department of Justice was established to “combat this form of modern-day slavery,” he added.

All 19 suspects were booked into the Kings County and Tulare County jails. They face charges of sending harmful material to seduce a minor, communicating and meeting with a minor for the purpose of sex and enticing a minor to produce pornography.

Thousands of human trafficking cases across the United States are reported every year, Bonta said.

However, the number saw a decrease in Metro Manila, from +41 in June 2023 to +30, meriting a drop from its “excellent” rating, congressional authorization for to “very high,” and in Visayas, confidential expenses since it's from +39 in June 2023 to +30. not specified in the 2022 budThe polling company also get for the OVP. saw a drop in the Net Personal The House Bicameral Com- Optimism of college graduates mittee announced on Monday that the final bicameral version of the P5.768 trillion national budget does not allocate any confidential and intelligence PAGE 1 funds for civilian agencies, in- continuously care for residents cluding the Department of Ed- with Alzheimer’s, dementia as ucation and the Office of the well as residents in wheelchairs Vice President. and bedridden hospice patients.

The Makabayan bloc wel"Though we have won and we comed the development but are so happy to be receiving our former Bayan Muna Repre- owed wages today, in this whole sentative Neri Colmenares re- process, my biggest highlight mained cautious, saying that is not really the money,” said the confidential and intelli- Sinagtala Limbo, a former worker gence funds might be hidden at Adat Shalom. “I know many of in other budget areas. my coworkers were initially very “Pwede naman kasing ti- scared, but we worked together nanggal ang confidential fund to find the courage to speak out niya tapos pinasok sa regular about these injustices.” items niya ang the same funds.

The Labor Commissioner So pupunta parin sa kanya first cited Adat Shalom Board & ‘yon,” Colmenares said.

Care December 2017, finding (The confidential funds can be that the company subjected eliminated and shifted to regular their employees to “oppressive budget items. This move would working conditions.” The Pilipino redirect the funds accordingly.) Workers Center referred the case On October 10, the House of to the state agency and assisted Representatives re-aligned the in identifying workers during confidential funds of Duterte’s the investigation. In June 2019, offices to the agencies respon- the state of California brought sible for safeguarding the West a lawsuit against Angelica and Philippine Sea. g Alexander Reingold, the owners of Adat Shalom, for fraudulently transferring assets. In the complaint, lawyers for the Labor Commissioner’s Office alleged that the Reingolds transferred five properties, valued at $4.8 million, out of the reach of creditors. The transferred properties include one of the facilities where workers had their wages stolen.

“This historically impactful victory upholding the law in an

and those who took postgraduate studies from +50 in June 2023 to +46. The number also lowered slightly for those who finished junior high school, finished senior high school, took vocational schooling, took senior high school, completed vocational school, or attended college, from +47 in June 2023

to +46.

Net Personal Optimism rose for elementary school finishers, and those who took high school education from +32 in June 2023 to +38. This also went for those who did not have formal education or some elementary education, from +29 in June 2023 to +30. g

$5.5 million in stolen wages returned to... industry that is plagued by wage theft was only possible because of the strong partnerships between the workers, the Pilipino Workers Center, the Labor Commissioner’s Office, our legal partners at Bet Tzedek, and the whole team that worked on this for several years,” said Aquilina Soriano Versoza, executive director of PWC. “This collection of $5.5 million is a signal to all employers that the game has fundamentally changed. Enforcement of labor laws is real in the industry and if you don't comply, there are very real consequences.”

“We hope this sends a loud and clear message to residential care home employers,” Yvonne Medrano with Bet Tzedek Legal Services said. “Pay your workers.

If you don't, we will go after you and we will fight vigorously to make sure that workers get money back in their pockets.”

Bet Tzedek Legal Services represented workers during the Labor Commissioner’s Office citation appeal case.

Prior to the pandemic highlighting workplace safety issues in the residential care industry, Adat Shalom Board & Care, a company with a history of health and safety violations, the facility now is rebranded as “Land of Peace,” with the administrators under Adat Shalom as the official owners. The company is accused of attempting to bribe workers

to drop the lawsuit and lie about working conditions at their facilities.

Pilipino and other immigrant communities are disproportionately affected by wage theft, often facing language and legal barriers to coming forward with complaints. PWC and other community-based organizations work with the Labor Commissioner to proactively address labor violations that workers in these marginalized communities face and workers have a history of brave leadership. Home care workers were misclassified and had their wages stolen, filed a complaint and the California Labor Commissioner’s Office ordered, Angel Connection and related entities, nearly $1.9 million in lost wages and penalties.

According to a report published by the UCLA Labor Center, Los Angeles workers in low-wage jobs lose an estimated $1.4 billion to wage theft every year. Statewide, the loss is even more staggering.

As a result of these injustices, working people in low-wage jobs and their families, a majority of whom are immigrants and/ or people of color, experience health problems and face food and housing insecurity. In Los Angeles, 80% of workers in low-wage jobs do not get their overtime pay. Eighty percent do not receive their meal and rest breaks. g

Who are America’s new ethnic...

PAGE 1 years caused a divergence in these trends, with both Indian and Chinese Americans moving toward the Republican party under President Trump.

Latino voters are younger Latinos are the country’s fastestgrowing racial and ethnic group in our electorate. Against common views of new Latino voters as older adults newly naturalized, U.S.-born-and-raised Latinos “are the ones truly changing America’s political landscape” with each election, said Claudia Sandoval, assistant professor of political science and international relations at Loyola Marymount University.

22% of Latinos eligible to vote in next year’s presidential election are new voters who have recently become eligible to vote. 38% of the Latino electorate is new to the political sphere since 2016.

Compared to the median age of 50 for all eligible U.S. voters, the median age of eligible Latino voters is 39.

In this electorate, she continued, gender gaps exist: while Latinos as a whole lean leftward, Latino men are more likely than Latino women to support Republican candidates — diverging respectively as much as 48% and 24% in Nevada.

These numbers, however, don’t necessarily mark a rightward exodus: over 35% of Latinos voted Republican in 2000, while 40% did in 2004 — much due, Sandoval suggested, to “George W. Bush’s bipartisan positions on immigration reform. And while former President Donald Trump isn’t seen as a supporter of progressive immigration reform, voters do tend to see him as an independent from the Republican Party, which is quite partisan now.”

“These numbers show us the complicated nature of Latino political preferences, attitudes, and political identification,” she added. “While only 4% of young Latino voters now believe that the Democratic Party is hostile to the Latino community, 37% of those voters believe that the Democratic

Party doesn’t necessarily care about the Latino community.

While 22% believe that the Republican Party is hostile to the Latino community, a third of young Latino voters believe the Republican Party cares a great deal about Latinos.”

Black voter participation Party affiliation likewise motivates the question of Black voter participation, said Jamil Scott, assistant professor of government at Georgetown University: “In 2024, I think we’re facing less of a question of whether Black voters will change their partisanship, and more of a question of how many Black voters will show up on Election Day at all.”

“There’s an excitement issue here,” she continued: “What has Biden done? He hasn’t kept his promises to Black voters on issues like student loan forgiveness and voting rights. And although he’s created record low unemployment among black Americans; new opportunities for small businesses; appointed many Black judges including Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Jackson, many of these things which are visible are not necessarily tangible.”

Black voters “can’t hang their hat on legislation like they can on loan burdens and rising costs of goods due to inflation,” Scott continued.

“People are pocketbook voters.

While Black people are largely not going to change their partisanship, many may wonder whether to show for their party at all if the state of their pocketbooks is not giving them a compelling reason to, especially given challenges to voting like longer wait times in communities of color.”

For Black voters — particularly those younger and more liberalleaning — “there’s dissatisfaction more broadly with the Democratic Party’s ‘hold-your-nose-and-vote’ offerings. The question for Black voters in 2024 is not how differently they vote but whether they see it as a moment in which they need to show up for democracy, or whether they’re tired of showing up again and again, and not seeing

the policy benefits that they want to see,” she said.

Gen Z voters of color 45% of the 40 million members of Gen Z eligible to vote in 2024 will be people of color, including 8.8 million Latinos, 5.7 million Black youth, 1.7 million Asian Americans and 1.8 million multiracial youth.

As a more racially and ethnically diverse generation than any other before, this voting bloc is nevertheless “characterized by our left-leaning political unity,” said Jessica Siles, deputy press secretary of the Gen Z political advocacy nonprofit Voters of Tomorrow. “We’ve been marching in the streets for change, and our political activity owes to our shared experiences growing up — especially when it comes to gun violence and climate change.”

In 2022, for instance, youth voted Democrat for the House of Representatives by a 28-point margin over Republican voters.

“Many people like to point to low youth voter turnout. However, although you may see a low percentage of Gen Z voting, it’s on the rise. In 2022, the first midterm election where this generation comprised the entire 18 to 22 age cohort, Gen Z voted at 28.4% — a higher rate than Millennials, Gen X and Boomers did” in their respective generations’ first midterm elections, Siles explained, the next-highest rate being the 23.5% of Gen Xers who voted in 1990.

Gen Z is emblematic of America’s new ethnic voters wholly in that “it’s not that young people are just very loyal to the Democratic Party,” she added.

“It’s that we continue to vote on the behalf of a few core issues we most care about, number one being the economy. As voters, we’re workers and taxpayers concerned about our ability to find a good job or pay for a house.

The future of these voting blocs depends on who can best engage them on these issues.” (Selen Ozturk/Ethnic Media Services)

(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 13-15, 2023 5

6 DECEMBER 13-15, 2023 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

OPINION

FEATURES

75 years of human rights

EMERGING from the hell of World War II, which saw the unspeakable evil of the Holocaust and the unleashing of nuclear bombs for the first time on two cities in Japan, the international community drew up an extensive list of human rights. On Dec. 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

On Sunday, December 10, the world marked 75 years since that declaration of freedom, equality and justice for all with two wars raging – one between Israel and Hamas, and the longer one, Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine.

The theaters of war, however, aren’t the only places where human rights are under threat. Civil liberties are undermined even in places where there is no full-blown war. The Philippines has had a first-hand experience with this, during the long years of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos’ conjugal dictatorship, when political dissent was crushed and thousands were tortured, arrested at will, executed and involuntarily disappeared. Human rights victims of the first Marcos regime have received some reparations, but there is still no closure for many other victims.

Democracy, whose restoration in 1986 was so hard-won, remained fragile and institutionally weak. Extrajudicial killings, torture by security forces and enforced disappearances continued.

The worst case of election violence, and the

worst attack on journalists, was perpetrated in 1989 by the political warlords of Maguindanao, the Ampatuans. Activists and journalists continue to be targeted, not only through armed violence but also through cyber bullying and legal cases.

In the previous administration, the country’s largest broadcasting network, ABS-CBN, lost its franchise after incurring the ire of then President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Philippines drew the global human rights spotlight under Duterte, who remains unapologetic about his bloody crackdown on the drug menace that left over 6,200 drug suspects dead, based on the official police count. Rights activists say the drug killings continue, although not on the same scale as in the previous administration. There is a continuing debate on how much civil liberties can be relegated to the back seat in the interest of public safety. The landslide victories last year of Marcos’ only son and namesake and Duterte’s daughter indicate what Filipinos think of human rights issues.

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

There are other aspects of human rights, with significant progress achieved in the past 75 years for the rights of women and children as well as workers and the LGBTQ+ community. But the current situation of the world shows that freedom,

equality and justice for all, along with economic freedoms, are a work in progress. Nations can reaffirm commitment to these objectives on the 75th year of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. (Philstar.com)

Blue tagging vs red tagging

Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ PHILIPPINE Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela is now being subjected to “blue tagging” – a term we coined for individuals labeled as supposedly being pro-America or worse, CIA agents – simply because he has been very vocal about China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea. Some anonymous and most likely fake accounts on social media have been trolling Commodore Tarriela ever since he confronted then-Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu during the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore last June, asking: “While China is talking about dialogue, China’s actions show confrontation. Why is there a big difference between China’s words and its actions?”

Li Shangfu – who has since been fired – was unable to give a clear and direct answer.

The blue tagging became apparent when the PCG spokesperson posted on X (formerly Twitter) that Filipinos

defending and making excuses for China’s aggressive behavior should be deemed “unpatriotic and a traitor to the Philippines and to our people.”

If calling out China’s unacceptable behavior in the West Philippine Sea, particularly the continued incursion of Chinese vessels in areas that are clearly under the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, is being pro-America or being a CIA agent, then 85 percent of Filipinos should be “blue tagged” because based on surveys, they trust the United States the most and approve of our alliance in defending our territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea. Needless to say, I have been blue tagged long ago by reprehensible individuals resorting to gossip, slander and innuendo just because I have a lot of American friends. Clearly as Philippine ambassador to Washington – of course it is my job to make sure that relations between the Philippines and the United States remain solid and stable.

There is also the Atin Ito Coalition composed of nongovernment and people’s

organizations which is embarking on a Christmas caravan to the West Philippine Sea as “a stark reminder of the precarious situation our Filipino fishing communities and frontliners face as they valiantly defend our sovereign right to fish… in the face of ongoing harassment by a foreign trespasser and invader,” as a member of the coalition explained when they launched the initiative a couple of months ago.

Should these Atin Ito Coalition members be “blue tagged” or labeled as CIA agents because they are unequivocally insisting that Ayungin Shoal – where the BRP Sierra Madre stands as our sovereign marker – is part of our maritime territory?

Chinese vessels have been continuous in their incursion and aggression, with the most recent display recorded just a few days ago when a Chinese bulk carrier identified as MV Tai Hang 8 rammed the boat of Filipino fishermen in the waters between Occidental Mindoro and Palawan, which is part of the West Philippine Sea. The hit-and-run incident caused the fishermen’s boat to capsize,

leaving five of them drifting at sea for almost a day before they were rescued by other fishing boats.

Incidents such as this is the reason why more and more Filipinos are getting angry and want our territorial rights fully protected in the West Philippine Sea because of the threatening dominance that other countries are displaying – taking over areas that are within our exclusive economic zone, stealing our fish and other marine resources, destroying coral reefs, intimidating our fishermen and preventing them from plying their livelihood.

Chinese aggression has been incessant, and this has become a serious concern for many countries that see the bullying as a threat to regional peace and security, which is why the decision of President Marcos Jr. to conduct joint maritime patrols not only with the United States but other nations as well is really very important to enhance regional security.

While we continue to look for ways to navigate the situation carefully and prevent it from escalating, “the Philippine

government must strengthen its ability to patrol and protect the country’s maritime zones by building a self-reliant defense posture program and upgrading the capabilities of the PCG,” as House Resolution 1494 stated.

Clearly, we should not let our guard down and must be prepared to face external as well as internal threats, as we have seen in the recent bombing incident at Mindanao State University in Marawi City that killed four people and injured 50 others.

The terrorist group Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the horrific attack, with suspects identified as members of the IS-affiliated Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute group. Many countries have condemned the attack, which has rekindled memories of the siege of Marawi that started in May 2017 and lasted for five months, resulting in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of residents.

Senate President Migz Zubiri recalled that government troops ran out of ammunition several weeks after the battle in Marawi began, but foreign suppliers were unable to deliver. Fortunately, local firearms manufacturer

Armscor Global Defense stepped up to the plate and delivered ammunition of various calibers on time – otherwise, the fight would have gone on for much longer. Armscor is an industry pioneer that has since become one of the largest in Asia, and the Tuason family – whom I know very well – are always ready to help the government.

SP Migz is absolutely right in filing Senate Bill 2455 to revive the self-reliant defense posture (SRDP) program that the government initiated in 1974 to develop a local defense industry that would also bring in thousands of jobs for Filipinos.

With conflicts happening in many parts of the world, there is now a shortage of firearms and other defense items, which is why the Philippines cannot continue to rely on foreign suppliers for the defense requirements of our armed forces. (Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** babeseyeview@gmail.com

President Marcos’ ICC options

With Due Respect ARTEMIO V. PANGANIBAN THE recent hearings in the House of Representatives ignited spirited public debates on whether the present regime should allow the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate and, if warranted, prosecute alleged crimes against humanity committed during the term of, and/or by, former President Rodrigo R. Duterte. Reacting to the debates, President Marcos said that returning “under the fold of the ICC” is “under study. So, we’ll just keep looking at our options.”

In my humble opinion, he has three major options: 1) Maintain the status quo, 2) Rejoin the ICC, and 3) Cooperate without rejoining the international tribunal.

MAINTAINING THE STATUS QUO MEANS LETTING THINGS STAND AS THEY ARE; that is, our country will not rejoin the ICC but will respect the July 18, 2023 decision of the ICC’s Appeals Chamber (AC), voting 3-2, authorizing incumbent ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan to resume his investigation of the

alleged crimes committed on Nov. 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019.

Please note that the majority of three in that AC decision merely agreed with Khan that our government had not shown genuine willingness or ability to investigate the situation in the Philippines and to prosecute the perpetrators, especially the “brains,” of the alleged crime.

Note too that the majority did not rule on the more fundamental issue of whether the petition to conduct the preliminary investigation was filed within the undisputed reglementary period of two years. It simply ignored this issue, saying that our government has waived its right to pose it.

The vocal minority of two insisted, and I respectfully agree, that the ICC did not acquire jurisdiction over the alleged crimes because former ICC chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda petitioned the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber (PTC) for authority to conduct the preliminary examination only on May 24, 2021, and the PTC granted her petition only on Sept. 15, 2021, both dates being more than two years after the Philippine withdrawal from the ICC took effect on March 17, 2019. This may be the reason why until

now, and despite the 3-2 ruling of the AC, Khan has not publicly announced the resumption of his investigation.

In any event, Solicitor General Menardo I. Guevarra summed up the current Philippine position: Unless blacklisted or deemed “undesirable,” Khan’s investigators may enter the country in accordance with our laws, roam the countryside, observe their surroundings, listen to witnesses, receive documents, and see how free and capable our justice system is, with no cooperation from our government.

UNDER THE SECOND OPTION, the president, pursuant to his constitutional authority to conduct foreign affairs, has the plenary power to get us back to the ICC and remove all uncertainties to enable Khan to investigate the Philippine situation and to prosecute the culprits; and to allow the ICC to convict after due process and to order the detention of the convicted culprits.

My humble opinion is that, based on the available information showing that our withdrawal from the ICC was made solely by the president without the Senate’s concurrence, the president (regardless of who the

incumbent is) may simply reverse his own act by recalling the letter of withdrawal without need of a new Senate ratification. The Senate ratification of the Rome Statute that created the ICC had never been reversed by the Senate. Hence, the concurrence it gave on Aug. 23, 2011, via Senate Resolution No. 57 still mightily stands to this day.

Though rendered merely via an obiter dictum (side remark), the Supreme Court—in Pangilinan v. Cayetano (March 16, 2021) fittingly penned by Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen—backed up this obiter with logic, reason, and wisdom.

UNDER THE THIRD OPTION, the president need not recall his letter of withdrawal but simply allow his Cabinet members, especially the secretary of justice, to open the facilities of the executive branch, like the National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police, and the Office of the DOJ Chief Prosecutor, to help Karim Khan investigate the Philippine situation and prosecute the alleged culprits.

Under this option, the president can justify the exercise of his diplomatic power by citing the comity of nations and our abiding respect for the rule of

President Marcos said that returning “under the fold of the ICC” is “under study.

Malacañang file photo

law. In fact, I think this stance can end in either of two seemingly disparate results: first, the ICC investigators may conclude that after all, the Philippines is genuinely willing and able to discharge its primary duty to investigate and prosecute; and second, the investigators may decide to rely on their own findings and ensnare the alleged perpetrators into the sticky ICC web.

Vice President Sara Duterte has formally asked the Department of Justice not to cooperate with Khan and his prosecutors, and with the ICC itself. In short, she

is in favor of maintaining the status quo, thereby upholding the self-respect and dignity of our country and demonstrating the viability and capacity of our local institutions to render justice though the heavens may fall.

Which option will the President take? Abangan. (Inquirer.net) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** Comments to chiefjusticepanganiban@ 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.

ADVERTISING AND ADVERTORIAL POLICIES ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board

CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President

MOMAR G. VISAYA Executive Editor

US HEADQUARTERS: 1210 S. Brand Blvd Glendale, CA 91204 Tels: (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 Fax: (818) 502-0858 • (213) 481-0854 e-mail: info@asianjournalinc.com http://www.asianjournal.com With offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York/New Jersey Las Vegas, San Diego, Philippines

IVY MANALANG Vice President - Marketing Los Angeles Asian Journal

DING CARREON Videographer

ANDY TECSON

Asian Journal Publications, Inc. (“AJPI”) reserves the right to refuse to publish, in its sole and absolute discretion, any advertising and advertorial material submitted for publication by client. (“Client’s Material”) Submission of an advertisement or advertorial to an AJPI sales representative does not constitute a commitment by AJPI to publish a Client’s Material. AJPI has the option to correctly classify any Client’s Material and to delete objectionable words or phrases.

Client represents and warrants that a Client’s Material does not and will not contain any language or material which is libelous, slanderous or defamatory or invades any rights of privacy or publicity; does not and will not violate or infringe upon, or give rise to any adverse claim with respect to any common law or other right whatsoever (including, without limitation, any copyright, trademark, service mark or contract right) of any person or entity, or violate any other applicable law; and is not the subject of any litigation or claim that might give rise to any litigation.

Publication of a Client’s Material does not constitute an agreement to continue publication.

Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AJPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may suffer by reason of (1) Client’s breach of any of the representations, warranties and agreements herein or (2) any Claims by any third party relating in any way to Client’s Material.

AJPI will not be liable for failure to publish any Client’s Material as requested or for more than one incorrect insertion of a Client’s Material. In the event of an error, or omission in printing or publication of a Client’s Material, AJPI shall be limited to an adjustment for the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the correct advertisement.

Under no circumstances shall Asian Publications, Inc. be liable for consequential damages of any kind.

ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. publishes the Los Angeles Asian Journal, published twice a week; the Orange County and Inland Empire Asian Journal, Northern California Asian Journal, Las Vegas Asian Journal and the New York / New Jersey Asian Journal which are published once a week and distributed to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange Counties, Northern California, Las Vegas and New York and New Jersey respectively.

Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Letters to the Editor are welcome.

Letters must contain complete name and return address. The materials, however, are subject to editing and revisions.

Contributions and advertising deadlines are every Mondays and Thursdays. For advertising rates and other informations, please call the L.A. office at (213) 250-9797 or send us an email at info@asianjournalinc.com

Dateline PhiliPPines

(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 13-15, 2023

7

27 OFWs from Israel home for Christmas MANILA – The 11th batch of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Israel arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on Monday afternoon, just in time to celebrate Christmas with their families.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) welcomed to the country 27 returning OFWs, composed of 25 caregivers and two hotel workers, who arrived via Etihad Airways flight EY424.

Senior officials and personnel from concerned government agencies were also present at the NAIA, including the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) led by Deputy Administrator Honey Quiño, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the

Department of Health (DOH), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Philippine National Red Cross.

The DMW said this is in compliance with the order of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a “whole of government approach” in helping all OFWs returning from Israel.

Upon arrival, the OFW returnees were asked to fill up their information sheets which will be used for their monitoring, and as bases for the provision of additional services for them.

They also received immediate assistance upon arrival and other forms of support.

Each OFW returnee received

PHP50,000 financial assistance from OWWA, PHP20,000 livelihood assistance from the DSWD, and PHP5,000 and skills training vouchers from TESDA. The DOH also extended medical assistance to the OFW returnees.

The repatriates will also receive comprehensive reintegration assistance and job facilitation services for other employment opportunities, whether here or in another country.

To date, a total of 362 OFWs and 14 children from Israel, and 61 from Lebanon have been repatriated by the Philippine gov- The government stood firm on its deadline after the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) earlier gave into some ernment since the Palestinian of Piston’s demands such as waiving penalties, extending franchise validity to five years, and removing certain challenging parts of the militant group Hamas launched Omnibus Franchising Guidelines.

Philstar.com file photo their attack in southern Israel on October 7. (PNA)

by Alexis RomeRo

MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, December 12, declared Dec. 26 a special non-working day

nationwide to give families more time to bond and encourage domestic tourism. “(The declaration will) give the people the full opportunity to celebrate the holiday with their families and loved ones,”

MANILA — Marking Human Rights Day, France and Germany urged the Philippine government on Sunday, December 10 to “redouble” its efforts to ensure accountability and fight impunity with regard to extrajudicial killings that occurred in the war on drugs.

In a joint declaration on the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the embassies of France and Germany in Manila also urged the Philippine government to redouble efforts to “protect (environmental) human rights defenders, journalists and indigenous peoples; and to put an end to the practice of red-tagging.”

“France and Germany remain committed to human rights and the rule of law and wish to continue to strengthen their cooperation in this area,” the Declaration read.

France and Germany will launch the “Franco-German Human Rights gathering” in the Philippines: a regular discussion inviting relevant actors in the field of human rights to exchange ideas and join forces to achieve the

rights and fundamental freedoms of all human beings.

The embassies also cited Manila on its regained readiness to engage in a constructive manner with international partners on human rights, with 215 recommendations that the Philippines adopted within its latest Universal Periodic Review Cycle and the visits of several UN special rapporteurs are testament to this new openness.

The 75th anniversary of the UDHR, the embassies said, is a unique opportunity to reaffirm the universality and indivisibility of all human rights, their relevance in the face of current challenges, the necessary support for those who are first defenders, and the need to ensure respect for all rights through justice everywhere and for everyone by fighting against impunity.

Committed to the protection and promotion of all human rights, France and Germany commemorated the adoption of the United Nations UDHR which took place at the Palais de Chaillot

Proclamation no. 425 read.

Marcos ordered the Departby JAmes RelAtivo ment of Labor and EmployPhilstar.com ment to issue the appropriMANILA – President Ferdinand ate circular to implement the proclamation for the private Marcos Jr. announced that there will be no more extension of sector. g the December 31 deadline for public utility vehicle (PUV) consolidation.

This comes after progressive group Piston in Paris on Dec. 10, 1948, in order transport an upcoming to strongly recall its importance announced and relevance as an essential basis transport strike from December for the realization of the rights 14 to 15 to protest the impending and fundamental freedoms of all phaseout of traditional jeepneys and UV Express units. human beings.

"Today, we held a meeting Based on the recognition of “the inherent dignity of all members with transport officials, and it of the human family and their was decided that the deadline for equal and inalienable rights,” this the consolidation of public utility declaration grants them to each vehicles (PUV) operators will not individual, without distinction be extended," said Marcos on of skin color, sex, language and Tuesday, December 12.

"Currently, 70% of all operators religion and without recourse to have already committed to and any other criteria.

“Advocating for the cause consolidated under the Public of human rights is not only a Utility Vehicle Modernization moral duty and an obligation Program (PUVMP)," he added.

The government stood firm of international law. This cause also serves the interests of all on its deadline after the Land Transportation Franchising societies,” the embassies said.

Board (LTFRB) “Examples from around the Regulatory world bear witness to this: where earlier gave into some of Piston's human rights are violated, peace demands such as waiving and stability cannot be established penalties, extending franchise in the long term. Conversely, validity to five years, and when freedom and human dignity removing certain challenging are protected, they appear to parts of the Omnibus Franchising be (a) source of creativity and Guidelines.

According to transport groups, prosperity,” they added. (Pia Leethose with individual franchises Brago/Philstar.com)

No extension for PUV consolidation Marcos declares Dec. 26 special non-working day deadline after 2-day strike announcement Philstar.com

Germany, France ask Philippines to fight EJKs

who fail to consolidate before 2024 will no longer be allowed to operate, plunging thousands of drivers operators into unemployment.

Last November, the Department of Transportation claimed that they have already clarified "misconceptions" about the phaseout of traditional jeeps, emphasizing the provision of financial assistance for cooperatives.

This aligns with the DOTr's initiative to shift traditional jeepneys to eco-friendly alternatives like minibuses and electric vehicles. Yet, transport groups argued that these vehicles can cost up to P2.8 million.

Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista earlier tried to "correct" talks about a possible phaseout, despite LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III's acknowledgment that a jeepney phaseout would be the "last stage" of the PUV modernization program.

"We cannot let the minority cause further delays, affecting majority of our operators, banks, financial institutions, and the public at large," Marcos said.

"Adhering to the current timeline ensures that everyone can reap the benefits of the full operationalization of our modernized public transport system. Hence, the scheduled

timeline will not be moved," he added.

Strike continues; 70% data 'misleading' Piston said that they will go ahead with the planned transport strike, saying that DOTr and LTFRB themselves said that 70% of public utility jeeps and 60% of UV Express units would not be allowed to operate should the December 31 deadline push through.

"This is equivalent to 60,000 drivers and 25,000 operators that would operators woud add to the growing unemployment in the National Capital Region alone," said the group in Filipino on Tuesday.

"Because of Marcos Jr.'s latest announcement, there will only be more reasons to carry on with the strike," they added.

The announcement, according to them, is untimely with less than two weeks before Christmas.

Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), on the other hand, claimed that Marcos' 70% consolidation data is misleading, saying that it's an aggregate of all types of PUVs nationwide, including buses.

The labor group said that only 26% of jeepneys and 36% of UV Express units are consolidated in Metro Manila.

Piston urged JODAs and commuters to join mobilizations against imminent deadline and franchise consolidation. g

The Great Resignation: Top HR Leader’s Insights on Navigating New Realities in the Tech and Manufacturing Sectors

by Callie Yu

In an era marked by unparalleled changes in the job market, the phenomenon known as the “Great Resignation” has prompted a global reassessment of workforce dynamics, especially in the tech and manufacturing sectors.

To delve deeper into this topic, I had the privilege of interviewing Ms. Qing Ma, the esteemed Head of HR at Siemens China. Her insights offer a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities this trend presents for employers and the future of productivity.

With over three decades of professional experience in human resources management, Ms. Ma is an authority on the subject.

Under her leadership, Siemens Chengdu Digital Factory was honored as a 2018 World Economic Forum Advanced Factory.

The success of Ms. Ma’s skilled workforce strategy is evident in Siemens’ remarkable accomplishments over the years. Her talent strategy, tailored specifically for Siemens’ high-end digital prototype factory, has led to a fourfold increase in factory output capacity. Additionally, the productivity of bluecollar workers has surged by an average of 25% annually, while investment in research and development personnel continues to grow by more than double.

Ms. Ma’s perspective on the Great Resignation is both insightful and forwardthinking.

She believes that this wave of voluntary job departures, coupled

with the recent rise of AI technology, presents an unparalleled opportunity for an overall increase in productivity, particularly in the tech and manufacturing sectors. According to her, these industries are at a pivotal point where they can harness these changes to their advantage.

The Great Resignation has been a wake-up call for many employers. It signifies a shift in employee expectations and attitudes toward worklife balance, career growth, and workplace culture. For tech and manufacturing companies, this means re-evaluating their talent management strategies to retain and attract top talent.

Ms. Ma emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying factors driving this trend.

In the tech sector, employees are not just seeking competitive salaries but also opportunities for innovation and personal development. They want to be part of organizations that are at the forefront of technological advancements.

Similarly, in manufacturing, there’s a growing demand for jobs that offer more than just manual labor – workers are looking for roles that provide learning opportunities and leverage new technologies.

Siemens’ response to these shifts under Ms. Ma’s guidance has been exemplary. By investing heavily in training and development, Siemens has been able to increase the skill levels of its workforce, thereby enhancing

productivity. The company’s emphasis on digitalization and automation has not only improved efficiency but also made jobs more attractive and fulfilling for employees.

The rise of AI technology plays a crucial role in this scenario. AI can take over routine and repetitive tasks, freeing up human workers for more complex and creative work. This transition can lead to a more engaged and productive workforce.

Ms. Ma points out that this shift requires a strategic approach to workforce

planning and development.

Companies must invest in training their employees to work alongside AI and leverage these technologies to enhance their capabilities.

Moreover, Ms. Ma highlights the importance of a holistic approach to employee well-being. The Great Resignation has underscored the need for a supportive work environment that prioritizes mental health and work-life balance. Creating such an environment can be a key differentiator for employers

in attracting and retaining talent.

The Great Resignation is not just a challenge but also an opportunity for employers in the tech and manufacturing sectors.

It calls for a reimagining of work practices, talent strategies, and the integration of technology into the workforce. Leaders like Ms. Qing Ma are at the forefront of this transformation, demonstrating that with the right approach, companies can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth

and increased productivity.

As we navigate through these changes, it’s clear that adaptability, innovation, and a deep understanding of employee needs are essential for success in the new landscape of work.

“Throughout human history, significant transformations have often arisen from significant challenges.

Rather than avoid today’s pressing social issues, we should focus on transforming them into opportunities for greater prosperity,” said Ms. Ma.

The Asian Journal

MDWK

Wednesday DECEMBER 13, 2023

MAGAZINE

asianjournalpublications

@asianjournalcom

@asianjournal

www.asianjournal.com Los Angeles | Las Vegas | Orange County/Inland Empire | Northern California | New York/New Jersey

Young filmmaker determined James on the importance to make mark in industry of creative freedom

By Raoul J. Chee Kee

By CaRl MaRtin agustin

Inquirer.net

SHE may have only recently graduated, but Makenna “Kenna” Fojas already knows that she wants to connect with people through film. Her interest in moving pictures started back in high school in Mission Viejo, California, where she first took film production classes.

Back then, she was still unsure on what aspect of the filmmaking process to focus her attention on. What she was certain of was that she enjoyed the logistical preparations prior to a shoot, as well as the frenetic energy generated on film sets.

After graduating from high school, she enrolled in a course in psychology at the University of Washington, but realized after one day that she missed film too much. Kenna joined the school’s film club and tried her hand at doing production design, writing and directing short films.

‘Hapa’ She enrolled in a second course, cinema and media studies, and began to learn more earnestly about filmmaking. For “Hapa,” a short film about a mixed girl’s first day of middle school, Kenna as the producer was responsible for hiring the crew, coordinating the shoot and raising over $7,000 to cover the expenses.

She said “Hapa” is about a Japanese-American girl and her Filipino-African American

Inquirer.net

Makenna “Kenna” Fojas

friend as they tackle “the ambiguous signals that [emerge] about their race and their looks which leave them with a sense of confusion.” All of this happens on the first day of school.

Kenna, who is Filipino but grew up in the US, can relate to the characters’ confusion, but seems determined to learn more about her heritage.

A couple of months ago, she flew back to the Philippines and is staying with her grandmother. She’s lived through Manila traffic, had the chance to travel to several local destinations with relatives and is looking forward to experiencing an authentic Filipino Christmas complete with extended family.

Before she traveled to the Philippines, however, Kenna finished “Peach Fuzz,” a short film she wrote and directed based on “The Geography of Girlhood,” a collection of poetry by Kirsten “Kiwi” Smith.

Kenna got to meet her

track was also written with an artist named Zach Sorgen.”

“And then luckily, I met B.I in person backstage at a concert when I was in Seoul.

He told me that he was doing a concert in the Philippines and asked if I wanted to open. So I did. I opened for him when he came to the Philippines. After that, I sent him ‘Jacuzzi’ just to see if he wanted to work with me and DJ FLICT. He loved it. He also sent me one of his tracks called ‘4 Letters’ which we worked on at the same time.”

“I was very fortunate to be able to meet both B.I and DJ FLICT. Different parts of the world— one’s in LA, one’s in Korea, and another here in the Philippines.”

What is it all about? Can you let us in on the behind-the-scenes for the track?

“The song itself, if you listen to the lyrics, is quite sensual. We picked a topic, a jacuzzi, something that’s very symbolic of being sensual, Continued on Page 9

AS the globe continues to shrink and barriers to communication come undone, collaboration has become easier than ever before. And in this era of music without borders, James Reid, for his latest single, is joined by talents hailing from different parts of the world.

“Jacuzzi” is a club anthem that captures the spirit of fun and excitement, fusing house and pop elements, dynamic synths, and upbeat electronic beats. Reid is joined by South Korean rapper B.I and Los Angeles-based Grammynominated producer DJ FLICT. The following conversation has been edited Photo from Instagram/@makfo for length and clarity idol Kiwi—the screenwriter of How did “Jacuzzi” come about?

“10 Things I Hate About You” “I started the song with DJ FLICT, he’s a (Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger) Grammy-nominated producer from LA. He’s and “Legally Blonde” (Reese actually Filipino. He’s super talented and I’ve Witherspoon)—who eventually made quite a lot of songs with him. This particular gave Kenna the go signal to adapt her poetry that reads like a verse novel into a short film.

Determined to tell stories “‘Peach Fuzz’ is a comingof-age story about two sisters that I identified with even if I don’t have an older sister,”

By Donnabella l. gatDula Kenna said.

AJPress She cast two Filipino girls after fielding “hundreds of LOS ANGELES — Tawa requests” to be included in Services Inc. (TSI), the largest the film that is in the middle of Asian store chain in the United postproduction and should be States, has recently opened finished by the first quarter of its 61st 99 Ranch Market store next year. branch in Torrance, California.

She may have several short A grand opening ceremony films under her belt, but Kenna was held on Saturday, said her goal is to one day December 9 for the branch direct a full-length feature. located at 19100 Harborgate “Short films are accessible; Way in Torrance. it takes a lot of money to do TSI chairman Jonson Chen, a feature film. Short films are in an interview with the Asian like an appetizer and it’s how Journal on the sidelines of Tawa Services Inc. chairman Jonson Chen (second from left) and CEO Alice Chen (third Continued on Page 10 the event that said it took the from left) led the cutting of ribbon to officially open the 61st store of its 99 Ranch Market company several months to brand in Harborgate Way, Torrance on Saturday, Dec. 9. Also in photo are California State study the strategic location of Assembly field representative Moises Aglipay and representatives from the TSI engineering this newest branch. and construction team.

“We painstakingly scouted and looked for this location and we spent a lot to transform this branch into one of our largest stores,” Chen said.

For her part, 99 Ranch Market chief executive officer (CEO) Alice Chen, in her speech during the opening ceremony, said, “We are so excited to be here. Our mission and our vision every day and every single day since we’ve been open the last 39 years is to bring the best of Asia to dining room tables.”

San Gabriel Valley Chinese Cultural Association shows off their traditional lion dance at She thanked their loyal the grand opening of 99 Ranch Market branch in Torrance, CA. customers for their support.

AJPress photos by Donnabelle L. Gatdula “We try harder every single day toast boxes. to Asia” for generations of to see that smile on your faces Hot Deli: A variety of shoppers seeking everyday each time you come in to our freshly prepared delicacies, staples, fresh produce, live stores.Thank you so much for including traditional roast seafood, popular snacks, being here,” she added. duck, assorted combo meals, The company CEO also said delicacies, and items that Cantonese dim sum, and a are near-impossible to find in that they are happy to be able new addition of Japanese fried conventional grocery chains. to provide more jobs in the chicken bentos.

The newly-opened community.

Coinciding the grand She said the 30,000 square- Torrance store, which will be opening and ribbon-cutting foot Torrance store has hired so opened from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ceremony of the Torrance daily, offers over 10,000 items far some 120 employees. store was a traditional lion across six major categories: During the grand opening, dance performed by San Grocery: Featuring a wide California State Assembly Gabriel Valley Chinese Cultural range of groceries, including field representative Moises Association. popular Asian snacks and Aglipay, who is working under Among the highlights of beverage brands, authentic the office of Assemblymember spices, convenient frozen foods the opening of the 99 Ranch Mike Gipson of the 65 District, Market in Torrance included like dumplings and scallion presented a Certificate of the traditional Japanese pancakes, along with popular Recognition to the owners Bluefin Tuna cutting show and household appliances and of 99 Ranch Market for its demo tasting. support and contribution to the selected beauty and hair care The first 50 customers products. community. with the purchase receipt and Produce: A diverse “This is a welcome redemption voucher obtained selection of fresh fruits and development not only for a $25 gift card while waiting in vegetables to meet the Filipinos but all of the Asian line on Saturday. communities here in Torrance,” needs of both Eastern and During the opening Western cuisines, including Aglipay told the Asian weekend, customers with locally sourced greens and Journal in interview. purchase of $68 or more mushrooms, as well as globally In the coming months, were able to receive a bag imported choices such as the TSI chairman said they of 99 Ranch Market’s classic dragon fruit, jujubes, Korean would be putting up more assorted-flavor toast from the pears, and Japanese enoki stores nationwide. “We will be bakery section. mushrooms. opening up another store in Customers who spent over Meats: High-quality beef Houston, Texas soon,” he said. $99, on the other hand, were sourced from USDA-certified In California, he said they able to receive a mystery gift suppliers, organic chicken, would be eyeing another store bag. to be put up in Tustin in Orange Angus beef, Japanese Wagyu, Exclusive 99 Ranch Market and various marinated meats County. gifts were also given away catering to diverse needs Strategically located near for participants in on-site for hot pot and barbecue the 405 freeway, the 99 Ranch interactive activities. ingredients. store in Torrance is easily To date, the company Seafood: Over a hundred accessible, surrounded by other owns and operates 66 stores varieties of fresh and frozen retail and restaurants. across 10 states under all of its seafood, including live crabs, The Torrance branch, banners, including 168 Market lobsters, wild-caught fish, and Chen said, will bring diverse and Cravings by 99 Ranch a range of sashimi options; communities in the city and complimentary services such as Market, as well as e-commerce its surroundings a more and mobile business. comprehensive one-stop service cleaning, steaming, and frying In 2022 and 2023, it was are provided. and a richer array of pan-Asian Bakery: Offering a selection recognized by Deloitte as products. one of the best-managed of popular Asian-flavored Since its inception in 1984, companies in the United States baked goods, including egg the 99 Ranch Market has for two consecutive years. tarts, traditional Chinese become a beloved national For more information, visit snacks, egg waffle cake, Asian grocery brand that www.99Ranch.com.

Japanese cheesecake, and has served as the “Gateway

99 Ranch Market opens 61st store in Torrance

Janella refuses to be typecast into horror flicks

By Leah C. SaLterio Philstar.com

LOVING one person can be a curse, as what was depicted in the story of director Derick Cabrido’s horror-thriller, Mallari, with Piolo Pascual essaying the title role. The horror thriller is one of the 10 official entries in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

“It can be a curse because you will do everything to see your loved one become okay,” admitted Janella Salvador, who is in the stellar cast of the film.

“But to me, personally, loving someone will never become a curse.”

Janella will actively promote Mallari throughout the month of December with the entire cast. She is not going out of the country, but will spend Christmas in Manila. “This is my second MMFF project,” she said.

Doing a horror film like Mallari is not totally new to Janella, who made her acting debut in Jun Lana’s horror thriller, “Haunted Mansion” (2015).

Although she was elated to be included in the historic cast of Mallari, Janella was admittedly scared to do the film when it was first offered to her.

“I actually had second thoughts if I was really going to do it,” she said. “I knew it was going to be big. But after I read the script, I became convinced all the more to do it. It was a really good script.”

However, the project initially caused Janella to worry since she refused to be typecast into horror films.

“I told myself I wanted to take a break first from doing horror films,” Janella admitted.

“After Haunted Mansion, I did Bloody Crayons which was also a slasher film. Killer Bride was a TV series (in 2019). I wanted to rest from doing horror.

“But as soon as I read Mallari’s script, I told myself, ‘This is something that I couldn’t just pass up.’ It was so wellwritten and very detailed. Even up to the smallest characters, everything was well-written.”

After she accepted the project, Janella slightly realized she will not just work with Piolo

community

9

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 13, 2023

James on the importance of...

From Page 8 romantic, and luxurious. As for the beat, we actually made a few revisions before going towards a more electronic house vibe.”

“And when I sent the track to B.I, he put his verse down, and his vocals were perfect. It flawlessly matched the style we were going for, especially the K-pop flair that he brought to the song. It was perfect and I think our voices blended really well.”

How was it working with both B.I and DJ FLICT? “With DJ FLICT, he’s so talented. He’s worked with the likes of Wiz Khalifa, Fifth Harmony, Meghan Trainor—lots of different artists. So being able to learn from him in the studio, I think that’s really what happened. I was learning from him when we were making these songs. He’s like my kuya now that we’ve gotten pretty close.”

“As for B.I, I was just lucky he was able to find Janella Salvador with Piolo Pascual, who essays the titular character in the 2023 Metro Manila the time to come to the Philippines to shoot the Film Festival entry.

Philstar.com photo music video. He was in the middle of a European tour. He came here for two days just to shoot and when she played Valentina in in Mallari. She will play his I really appreciated that. When he was here and Darna, with Jane de Leon in the I got to talk to him, he was very soft-spoken and partner. title role.

“I felt nervous, but I know I very mysterious—what you would expect from a Janella keeps the faith that couldn’t let Mallari pass,” she K-pop idol.” said. “It was a challenge to work her solo concert supposed to As an artist, what do you usually draw from with Piolo. He has accomplished be presented this 2023 will push whenever you create and perform? through next year. so much. He never made me “I usually start with the music. I begin with my “I hope that my album feel that he’s Piolo. He was very influences. I lean a lot more towards genres such project will also push through generous on the set. as soul, funk, R&B, and a little bit of electronic— in 2024,” she said. “I really “I could constantly see him Daft Punk, MJ, and The Weeknd. The writing just want to focus on music and really working hard for his role. comes from experiences or things that I want to performing. I pray that the films experience.”

All of us in this movie, we were pushed back this year, will finally trained to portray our roles Since you’ve worked with B.I, what’s your equally. I know I couldn’t let this see the light. I want to do more dream collaboration checklist? films and continue to explore project pass.”

“Oh, man. There are definitely some artists the world of cinema.”

Others in the cast of Mallari that I want to collaborate with locally. I can’t say Research for Mallari even are Gloria Diaz, JC Santos and who because I’m actually going to collaborate reached Madrid, Spain where Elisse Joson. with them. So we’re just gonna have to stay screenwriter Enrico Santos The film also recently held tuned for that. But I mean, if I can get a track with tried to look for facts about the The Weeknd or Olivia Rodrigo, that’d be cool.” a fan-con, a first for Janella. only documented serial killer “We’re going to perform for On the other side of the coin, not just as in the Philippines in the 1800s. the fans and we will be holding an artist but someone who manages a record Completing the script took four label, what’s the biggest thing you’ve learned a Q&A part. I don’t usually years of research. do that. I think it’s a great from that experience?

When Piolo’s name came opportunity to be able to talk to “One of the things I’ve learned from out on top of the white board, our supporters and audiences,” managing a music label and not just being an the screenwriter, producer she said. artist is that there’s more to it than you know.

(John Bryan Diamante) and the “I’m excited because I What music is for me is it is that outward director were all in agreement haven’t done these things for expression of what you’re feeling—it’s a for their choice. The project a long time. Ever since the creative outlet. But coming from the music label itself took a little less than pandemic started and I had my perspective, there’s a lot more to it, what a song a year. The budget cost a baby, I have not done a lot of can actually do. Yes, it can touch others. Yes, it whopping P40 million and things. It just shows that this can make them want to dance. But it can also production is really big and they principal photography was a connect people and places.” total of 22 days to shoot the are doing everything they can.

“This is something that I’ve been trying to do material.

I’m just grateful to be part of more by collaborating with artists in Singapore In late November, that. I think it’s great.” and Korea—trying to connect the Philippines Mentorque Productions signed After she gave birth to her with different regions. That’s something that I’ve a landmark partnership deal baby Jude in October 2020 discovered and have been working towards.” with Warner Bros. for the in Bath, Somerset, England, What is the hardest part about doing so?

Janella took a break from acting nationwide distribution of What is the most rewarding?

Mallari, the first mainstream film and performing.

“The hardest part is managing to be distributed by Warner in Last year, she slowly started expectations. In the music industry, maybe to return in front of the cameras the Philippines. one out of 1000 people will make it. I think the

James Reid

Photo from Instagram/@james

chances are even less. When you’re dealing with people’s hopes and dreams, sometimes it can get rough.”

“My favorite part is that I’m simply in a field where I’m having fun. I get to make music, work with different artists, and take my career into my own hands. I have creative control to take risks and explore. If I were working with another company that was focused solely on making money, then I think we would be doing things very differently. We wouldn’t get the opportunity to create music that is outside the box and pushing it a little too far. I like being in that space where I’m free to explore, where I’m free to make mistakes and take risks.”

If you could go back in time and speak to a younger version of you who is just about to start Careless, what would you say?

“I would say, ‘Prepare yourself. It’s going to be difficult, it’s going to be really stressful, but very rewarding.’ I wouldn’t tell him to do anything differently. I’ve learned so much through the years. If it weren’t for all those challenges, mistakes, and unfortunate events, I wouldn’t have grown as much. I wouldn’t change anything. I would just tell him to buckle up.”

What’s next for James Reid?

“We have a lot in store, not just for me, but for the label as a whole. This year, we transitioned into becoming an entertainment company, not just a music label. We’ll be exploring more music, but also TV and film.”

“We’re kicking off the next year with Liza’s first Hollywood film, ‘Lisa Frankenstein,’ which is coming out in February. A lot more will be coming from her—we’re also even producing her own TV series.”

“I’ve already begun recording a new album which will be coming out next year. The fans can be excited about this one since it’s very different from everything I’ve done in the past.

A lot of music projects will also be coming out from the Careless artists. We’ve taken a lot of hits. It’s been very challenging. But we’ve just been getting ready, preparing everything, and collaborating with a lot of different production houses and music labels. It’s going to be a big year.”

10 community The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 13, 2023

4 ways filing for divorce can benefit your immigration case Barrister’s Corner ATTY. KENNETH URSUA REYES COUPLES get divorced for various reasons. California is a no fault state. The reasons why a couple is getting divorced are often irrelevant to the issues of the family law case. Divorce is often a difficult and negative experience for most families.

However, getting divorce may have some unintended benefits in the immigration law arena.

Four situations in which filing for divorce can be beneficial to your immigration case are as follows: 1. Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens If you were petitioned for legal permanent residence by your U.S. citizen parent as a married son or daughter 21 years old or over, you are classified in immigration law under family sponsored third preference (F3) which usually carries a long wait time. The wait time for Filipinos for example is currently 22 years.

The priority date is normally the date the petition was initially filed by your U.S. citizen parents. If you get divorced, you revert back to single status and your category automatically becomes reclassified to first preference (F1) where the waiting time is substantially shorter. For example, for Filipinos the wait time under F1 category is 10 years shorter than F3 category.

This means if your parents filed your immigration petition 12 years ago, then you can adjust to a green card now instead of waiting another 10 years.

2. Married sons and daughters of legal permanent residents If your parents are legal permanent residents, getting divorced will convert you back single status making you eligible to be petitioned by your legal permanent resident parents under the family based second preference (F2b) category if you are 21 years old or older or under the family based second preference A (F2a) if you are under 21 years of age.

For those who married after they were petitioned by their LPR parents (F2A and F2B), the petition is automatically revoked under operation of law the moment you get married and cannot be reclaimed by a divorce. In theory, it can be argued that filing a subsequent petition after your divorce under the same

category inherits the previous petition’s priority date under 9 FAM 42.43 N10 and 8 CFR 204.2(h), Part 205. However, success of such argument is not clear since the old petition was automatically revoked the moment you married. The best thing that can be done in this situation is to have your LPR parent repetition you as an F2A or F2b even if you are unable to reclaim the previous petition’s priority date.

3. Conditional legal permanent residents in failed marriages For those who obtained their legal permanent residence status through marriage based petition by their U.S. citizen spouse of less than 2 years marriage, the legal permanent residence status conferred is usually a “conditional legal permanent residence” valid only for 2 years. The couple would need to sign and file a joint petition to remove this condition prior to the expiration of the 2 years or the conditional legal permanent resident spouse would fall out of status.

The problem arises when the marriage is in trouble.

Often it becomes difficult to obtain the cooperation of the U.S. citizen spouse specially when the couple has separated. U.S. citizen spouse often refuse to sign the I-751 for or appear at the I-751 interview if one is set by the USCIS. Filing for divorce would terminate the marriage and allow you to file a “waiver” of the joint petition to remove the conditional LPR status based on entering into the marriage in good faith. Terminating the marriage by filing a divorce is a requirement in order to file the “waiver.” It is important to time this correctly as soon as the marriage starts falling apart because by terminating the marriage early on, you might be able to file the waiver before the expiration of your 2 year conditional LPR thus allowing you to extend your LPR status in 1 year increments until a final decision is made in your case.

4. Married aliens in nonimmigrant visas and those without status For those who enter the U.S. as a non-immigrant and are separated from their spouse but still married, filing a divorce would open up opportunities in case they meet a new significant other who is a U.S. citizen and who can petition them as an immediate relative. This is usually the fastest of process in obtaining legal permanent residence. In countries such as the Philippines where there

is no divorce, many people come to the U.S. to start a new life after they have been separated from their old spouse (often still married to them). Even if the alien over stays their status as a visitor, the alien can still adjust to that of a legal permanent residence if petitioned by a U.S. citizen spouse. If the alien was never inspected, the alien can still adjust to legal permanent residence if they are grandfathered under INA 245(i) and there are no special restrictions on their status. To be grandfathered under INA 245(i), the alien must have been a beneficiary of a legal permanent residence petition filed no later than April 30, 2001.

Finally, a common concern of divorcing immigrants is “What happens if my spouse refuses to sign the divorce papers?” The truth is you do not need your spouse’s signature to obtain a divorce in California. You only need to provide your spouse notice that you filed a divorce by personally serving your spouse the divorce petition and summons. In countries that are members of the Hague Convention, special procedures need to be followed to effect service. So yes it is possible to divorce your spouse even if your spouse is in a country that does not recognize divorce among its citizens such as the Philippines. For some immigrants, filing for divorce opens up opportunities in this land of milk and honey. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010.

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

(Advertising Supplement)

Young filmmaker determined...

From Page 8 filmmakers usually start. They’re underrated and underappreciated, but they are a way to make art,” she said.

One of the most memorable moments of the entire “Peach Fuzz” experience for Kenna was when she witnessed the actress she cast to play the younger sister call the other actress “ate”—a term of respect accorded older sisters.

“Being half white and half Filipino made me a bit insecure growing up in the U.S., but I realized that I have as much right as the next person to talk about my identity,” she said.

EMPLOYMENT

In the few months that she has been in the Philippines, Kenna has discovered that Filipinos live in “food-centered communities with a strong emphasis on family.”

She has also had the chance to make new friends after she dropped by one of the weekend markets in Makati City.

“I saw two girls who were laughing and talking and they looked so at ease with one another; I missed my friends back in the U.S. When they noticed me looking at them, I mustered the courage to say hi and introduce myself—we’re friends now,” she said with a smile.

EMPLOYMENT

Dr. Juan M. Montero II (top center) of Montero Medical Missions, and his son, Dr. Paul N. Montero, Associate Professor of Surgery at the University of Colorado Medical Center together with Health Secretary Ted Herbosa and the new and past officers of the Philippine College of Surgeons during the PCS 79th Clinical Congress held at the EDSA Shangri-La from Dec. 3 to 7, 2023.

Jessy shares plan to return to showbiz next year

By JESSICA ANN EVANGELISTA Inquirer.net

NOW that Jessy Mendiola’s daughter with Luis Mansano is turning a year old later this month, the actress revealed that she is eyeing a comeback to acting in 2024 after years of hiatus from showbiz to focus on being a mother.

Speaking to the press, Mendiola said that despite motherhood having neither a beginning nor an end, she plans to go back to acting next year.

“Forever naman talaga ang pagiging ina, but ‘yun nga pinaplano ko next year, babalik na ako,” said the actress.

Mendiola also expressed her worries that, given her inactivity, show biz might have forgotten about her.

“Kinakabahan nga ako kasi baka nakalimutan na ako ng show biz, pero I’m very grateful na bawat post ko nandoon pa rin ‘yung mga tao na nagsusupport sa akin,” she said.

The actress revealed that

ngayon may movie na offer sakin, hindi pako ready ngayong taon kasi gusto ko mag one year muna ‘yung anak ko,” she said.

The “Maria Mercedes” breakout star noted that her husband is very supportive of whatever role she plans to take on when she comes back to work.

“Si Luis, super supportive siya, as in sa lahat ng gusto kong arte sa buhay. He’s always been there, and until now, talagang sinasabi niya sakin, ‘Kahit anong gusto mong gawin, love, go,” narrated Mendiola.

Given that the actress rose to fame after her sensual roles, Jessy Mendiola Photo from Instagram/@senyoritajessy the question remains whether she will still go in the same direction. there have been many acting “As long as the story is offers for her but that she was not yet ready at the time, as she good, as long as the script is good, and as long as you want wanted her daughter to turn to do it, why not. But gusto ko one year old first. rin ma-try ‘yung maging mom.

“Last year pa, even before ako mabuntis marami nang nag- As a leading lady, bagay pa naman sakin diba?” she said. ooffer mga teleserye. Actually,

Calendar events

of

DECEMBER DECEMBER 19

Simbang Gabi 2023 7pm Church of The Good Shepherd 504 N. Roxbury Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

EMPLOYMENT / FOR RENT

community 11 Rajo Laurel restores Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan’s wedding dress for daughter Ella The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 13, 2023

Celebrity couple Ellen Adarna and Derek Ramsay Photo from Instagram/@maria.elena.adarna

Derek opens up about Ellen’s miscarriage

By Jan Milo severo Philstar.com

ACTOR Derek Ramsay shared that his wife, Ellen Adarna, experienced a miscarriage.

During the press conference of Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry “Kampon,” Derek was asked if the film signaled that he is becoming active again in show business.

However, he mentioned that if they were to have another pregnancy, he would become more “hands on.”

“We’re really focusing, kami ni Ellen, na magka-baby. So ‘pag nangyari ‘yon, medyo malabo na tatanggap ako ng project kasi very hands on ako mag-alaga,” he said.

“N’ong nasa Spain kami nalaman namin na preggy si Ellen and then unfortunately we lost the baby but at least alam namin na hindi kami baog. First attempt pa lang naman well

By Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com

ELLA Pangilinan, daughter of Maricel Laxa and Anthony Pangilinan, wed Enrique Lhuillier-Miranda wearing a revival of Maricel’s own wedding dress, thanks in part to designer Rajo Laurel.

Maricel and Rajo are high school classmates and Ella would often successful, unsuccessful so ‘yon accompany her mother’s visits to Rajo’s na muna i-focus namin na we studio, igniting her love for design. can get a full pregnancy right In an Instagram post, Rajo recalled away,” he added.

Derek said that at least they the mother and daughter reaching out both know that they are capable to meet him. Maricel brought along her wedding gown designed by the late of producing their own baby.

National Artist Jose “Pitoy” Moreno.

“We’re sad because we lost Rajo had Ella try on Maricel’s gown, the baby but at least alam namin noting that it overwhelmed her petite na hindi kami baog so may frame. The designer was enamored by good possibility na makabuo,” its beautiful and interesting beadwork, he said. and thus thought of restoring the original When pressed for more dress. details, Derek mentioned that “I thought that if I could salvage this Ellen’s pregnancy was relatively and transfer this into a silhouette that brief. would be perfect for Ella,” said Rajo. “I “Nandon kami sa Spain for then went into a full restoration mode my mom’s birthday, delayed si Ellen. She’s never delayed so we cleaning and bringing the embroidery knew something was up and she back to life.”

The designer called the project got herself tested while we were seamless. He thought Ella was there. A great gift for my mom “breathtaking” in the final output, leaving and then pauwi eventually nagRajo grateful to be able to study the spotting na siya,” he said. works of his past idols.

“We lost the pregnancy.

“One of the key philosophies that Hindi niya kailangang magpahave always guided my designs are raspa. It was still early on in Heritage and Timelessness. Most specially the pregnancy so a week lang when I design wedding gowns,” Rajo naman,” he added.

Kapuso stars Heart Evangelista and Marian Rivera with Tim Yap Photo from Instagram/@officialtimyap

Marian, Heart spotted together at Felipe Gozon’s event

FOLLOWING their reconciliation, Kapuso icons Marian Rivera and Heart Evangelista were spotted enjoying a warm bond at Atty. Felipe Gozon’s party.

Events and TV host Tim Yap posted photos and videos of Marian and Heart hanging out on his Instagram.

“With Love Marie and Marian. Last night at FLG’s birthday,” Tim captioned the post.

Heart recently shared that Marian took the first step to mend their relationship.

In a “24 Oras” interview after becoming the new ambassador for AkemiGlow, Heart expressed gratitude for Marian’s gesture.

“I really do give credit to Marian because she really spoke to a lot of our common friends na she likes to see me, ganyan,” Heart said.

“I really appreciate that,” she added. (By Jan Milo Severo/ Philstar.com)

Ella Pangilinan and her mother Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan

continued. “To be part of ones life’s most important life highlights is a true blessing.

I am so privileged and honored to have been able to do this for my friends.”

Rajo ended by wishing Ella and Enrique a lifetime of bliss. He was also among the guests at the couple’s wedding.

Both Ella and Maricel thanked Rajo for the work he put into designing the wedding dress, with Maricel saying, “the very special work of art made with love and passion.” She also noted that Rajo’s work honored the late Pitoy.

Rajo quipped that Ella’s wedding gown could be saved for another generation in her family. Ella is the elder sibling to actor Donny, Hannah, Benj and

Photos from Instagram/@rajolaurel

Solana.

Other celebrities who expressed their awe at Rajo’s efforts include Karen Davila, Ruffa Gutierrez, Pinky Webb, Bianca Gonzales and Rica Peralejo.

To top it all off, Rajo also created a new dress for Maricel to wear at Ella’s wedding, a contemporary Terno made from a bright “Bougainvillea” pink silk chiffon, highlighted by linear embroidery and accented by minute sugar Swaworvski crystals.

The Terno also had a removable overlay with a dramatic bow or shawl, which Rajo commended as both traditional and modern, and he was elated to see Maricel enjoying Ella’s wedding party in the dress.

12

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - December 13, 2023

LOYALT Y MEM BER

NOT YET A MEMBER?

SIGN UP & SAVE!

TEXT BONUS TO 87573 OR ASK OUR CASHIERS ON HOW TO

PROMO PERIOD | DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2023

f 23% Of

ff 20% O

PORK SPECIALS

PORK LONG FEET

2.29

$

BEEF SPECIALS

BEEF TONGUE

7.99

$

/LB

11% Off

PRODUCE PICKS

7.99

/LB

WAS $8.99/LB | SAVE $1.00

SEAFOOD SAVINGS

ff 40% O

ff 50% O

CEBUCHON (LECHON BELLY)

$

/LB

WAS $9.99/LB | SAVE $2.00

WAS $2.99/LB | SAVE 70¢

READY TO COOK

Low Price!

ff 29% O WILD | USA

1.99 PINEAPPLE

$

/EA

Fresh

ff 45% O

JUMBO WHITE SHRIMP HEAD-ON

2.99

$

CATCH

4.99

$

/LB

WAS $4.99/LB | SAVE $2.00

WAS $3.99 | SAVE $2.00

f 72% Of

FARM | ECUADOR

CALIFORNIA SQUID

ff 30% O

ff 36% O

f 14% Of

FARM | CANADA

99¢

GREEN PAPAYA

/LB

WAS $3.49/LB | SAVE $2.50

6.99

$

CAT

/LB

SARANGANI BAY BRAND

PREMIUM ATLANTIC SALMON STEAK

FreCsHh

99¢

PATOLA

/LB

WAS $10.99/LB | SAVE $4.00

WAS $1.79/LB | SAVE 80¢

/LB

WAS $6.99/LB | SAVE $2.00

SARANGANI BAY EMBUTIDO 250G

WILD | USA

6.99

5.99

LOBSTER WHOLE (RAW)

$

$

/LB

WAS $9.99/LB | SAVE $3.00

/EA

WAS $6.99 | SAVE $1.00

SULIT GROCERY SAVINGS ff 46% O

f 55% Of

TAYAMA STAINLESS OUTDOOR CHARCOAL GRILL

f 38% Of

m Hot Ite

TAYAMA TURBO OVEN EZ COOK

MAGNOLIA QUESO DE BOLA 500G

CHRISTMAS PAROL LANTERNS (ASSORTED DESIGNS)

SAN MIGUEL PUREFOOD TJ HOTDOG 12OZ | 2.5LBS (JUMBO)

29.99 $42.99 Available $7.99

$

/EA

WAS $66.99 | SAVE $37.00

/EA

TAYAMA ELECTRIC BBQ GRILL TG-868XL

WAS $12.99 | SAVE $5.00

ff 50% O

ff 49% O

f 53% Of

TAYAMA 8 CUP RICE COOKER (LIMIT 2)

Available

/EA

WAS $79.99 | SAVE $37.00

ff 45% O

MARCA PINA QUESO DE BOLA BIG 1.5 KG

f 21% Of

34.99 $19.99 $24.99 $16.49

$

/EA

WAS $74.99 | SAVE $40.00

/EA

WAS $38.99 | SAVE $19.00

ff 42% O P

38% Off R

/EA

WAS $49.99 | SAVE $25.00

ff 36% O

/EA

2.99

$

WAS $29.99 | SAVE $13.50

ff 36% O

PAMPANGA (PORK/CHICKEN) SHANGHAI 36OZ

11.99

$

/EA

WAS $18.99 | SAVE $7.00

f 12% Of

ISLAND PACIFIC FZ BILO-BILO (ASSORTED/ UBE/WHITE) 12.33OZ

MARCA PINA QUESO DE BOLA SM 748 GM

ff 50% O

f 37% Of

m Hot Ite

/EA

WAS $3.79 | SAVE 80¢

MAGNOLIA CHEEZEE BLOCK 440G

FERINO’S BIBINGKA (CHEDDAR CHEESE/ SALTED EGG/PUTO BUMBONG) 250G

EXCELLENT CANTON NOODLES 16OZ

$

$

$

4.49

4.99

/EA

/EA

WAS $8.99 | SAVE $4.50

WAS $9.99 | SAVE $5.00

ff 26% O

ff 40% O

DEL MONTE FRUIT COCKTAIL 30OZ

HOME PRIDE FILIPINO SWEET STYLE SPAGHETTI SAUCE 1KG

WAS $3.99/EA | SAVE 98¢

WAS $4.99 | SAVE $2.00

ISLAND PACIFIC KAONG (GREEN/ WHITE/RED) 12OZ

2FOR/$7 $2.99 2FOR/$5 /EA

WAS $3.39 | SAVE $1.78

On Sale

ff 36% O

f 37% Of

17% Off

ff 40% O

ff 50% O

2.99

/EA

WAS $4.99 | SAVE $2.00

25% Off

BARRIO FIESTA SALTED SHRIMP FRY 12OZ

2.99

$

/EA

WAS $3.99 | SAVE $1.00

On Sale

EMIUM

QU

Y

LECT ND SE ISLA A LI

T

ISLAND PACIFIC JASMINE RICE 25LBS

19.99

$

/BAG

WAS $31.99 | SAVE $12.00

SAN MIGUEL GOLD LABEL ICE CREAM QUEZONS BEST (SELECT FLAVORS) 1.5L PAPAYA PICKLES 340G LILY’S COCO JAM 370G

6.99

$

/EA

WAS $11.99 | SAVE $5.00

2.99

$

/EA

WAS $4.69 | SAVE $1.70

4.49

$

/EA

WAS $6.99| SAVE $2.50

SARANGANI MILKFISH IN OIL (REG/SPICY) 8OZ

3.99

$

YOUR FAVORITE FILIPINO SEAFOOD AND GROCERIES

Delivered FREE! Same Day Delivery & Curbside Pickup | Just download the app

Use code

FREE60

/EA

WAS $4.79 | SAVE 80¢

at checkout

SAN MIGUEL COFFEE 3-IN-1 BARAKO 10PC

ISLAND PACIFIC OTAP (BUKO PANDAN/UBE/ ORIGINAL) 600G

WAS $3.99/EA | SAVE $2.98

WAS $9.29 | SAVE $3.30

2FOR/$5 $5.99

/EA

LEMON SQUARE (CHEESE/LAVA) CAKE 10PC

REBISCO CUP KEYK (ASSTD VARIANTS) 10PC / FUDGEE BARR SELECT FLAVORS 10PK

PRESYONG SULIT SAVINGS

PRESYONG SULIT SAVINGS

2FOR/$5 $2.99

/EA

PROMO AVAILABLE AT ISLAND PACIFIC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA STORES LONGBEACH | WEST COVINA | CERRITOS | OXNARD | CANOGA PARK | SANTA CLARITA | TEMECULA | NATIONAL CITY | LAKE FOREST | GRANADA HILLS

ACCEPTED