Two bills in US Congress reignite scrutiny over dual citizenship
Two separate bills introduced in the U.S. House and Senate are reigniting national debate over dual citizenship, underscoring sharply divergent views on how the United States should treat individuals with allegiance to more than one nation House bill seeks census data on dual citizens the first measure, h r. 6486, was introduced in the house of representatives on December 5 by rep. Abe hamadeh (r-Arizona). the bill directs the U.s census Bureau to collect information on dual citizenship status as part of the decennial census.
Working while collecting Social Security: The “slow fade” more Americans choose
More Americans now work while collecting Social Security, creating a phased retirement shaped by rising costs, longer life spans, and multigenerational responsibilities
THe changing architecture of retirement more Americans now collect social security while continuing to work, creating a phased transition instead of a fixed retirement date. research from the center for retirement research at Boston college shows that about 40 percent of beneficiaries work at some point after they claim benefits. rising longevity, higher living costs, and shifting expectations about retirement contribute to this trend. it is also common among filipino American households, where older adults often support multigenerational families in the United states and abroad.
A growing workforce of older Americans Government labor data confirms this shift. the Bureau of Labor statistics reports that
Bong
President Marcos urges priority action on anti-dynasty, party-list and
by AJPress
DOJ claims sufficient evidence to charge Atong Ang
Prosecutors claim there is prima facie evidence to pursue kidnapping and homicide charges in the missing sabungeros case while clearing several individuals, including actress Gretchen Barretto, and signaling potential reinvestigation of a related Manila case by AJPress
mANiLA — the Department of Justice claims it has sufficient prima facie evidence to pursue criminal charges against gaming businessman charlie tiu hay Ang, also known as “Atong” Ang, and more than twenty other respondents in connection with the disappearance of multiple “sabungeros,” or cockfight enthusiasts, a set of cases that has drawn nationwide attention since 2021. in its announcement, the DoJ asserted that prosecutors found prima facie evidence with what it described as “reasonable certainty of conviction” for ten counts of kidnapping with homicide and sixteen counts of kidnapping with serious illegal detention. officials stressed that these findings relate only to probable cause and do not establish guilt. All
Revilla submits counteraffidavit as DOJ expands review of Bulacan flood-control cases
Former Senator Bong Revilla
Photo from Facebook/@bongrevillajrph
by AJPress
former senator ramon “Bong” revilla Jr. has filed his counter-affidavit before the Department of Justice (DoJ), formally responding to allegations linking his office to flood-control projects under government scrutiny. the submission, made on December 10, advances the DoJ’s preliminary investigation into a set of complaints involving public works in Bulacan. revilla appeared through counsel and denied involvement
Contractor Sarah Discaya surrenders to NBI ahead of expected arrest warrant
by AJPress
ceZArAh rowena “sarah” Discaya, a contractor accused in an alleged 96.5 million peso ghost flood control project in Davao occidental, appeared at the National Bureau of investigation (NBi) on tuesday, December 9. her lawyer, cornelio samaniego iii, said she surrendered voluntarily as authorities prepare to serve an arrest warrant expected later this week after earlier remarks from President ferdinand marcos Jr. samaniego added that ma.
roma Angeline rimando, an executive linked to one of Discaya’s firms, also surrendered to local authorities earlier in the week and turned over her passport to show she does not intend to leave the country while the case is pending. the NBi has not yet announced whether Discaya will be held once the warrant is issued or allowed supervised release. officials said coordination continues with prosecutors and the office of the ombudsman. Charges tied to alleged
Sandiganbayan rules
“fugitive from justice”, issuing an order for the cancellation of his Philippine passport as part of ongoing efforts to enforce an arrest warrant tied to corruption charges involving a flood control project in oriental mindoro. the ruling, released through a resolution posted on the court’s official
had already been cancelled and that embassies abroad had been instructed to coordinate with law enforcement agencies. Court says Co failed to submit to its jurisdiction
According to the sandiganbayan fifth Division, co did not comply with subpoenas, did not file count-
mANiLA — civil society leaders have filed multiple criminal complaints — including plunder, bribery, malversation, and graft — against Vice President sara Duterte and 15 others over the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds.
A coalition of priests, academics, rights advocates and journalists, including fr. flaviano Villanueva, fr. roberto reyes, and economist and former Dof Undersecretary Dr. maria cielo magno, lodged the complaint
before the office of the ombudsman on friday afternoon, December 12. the complainants claimed that respondents committed violations of section 2 of the republic Act (rA) No. 7080 as amended by rA 7659 (plunder); Article 219 and 212 of the revised Penal code (bribery and corruotion of public officials); Article 217 of the revised Penal code (malversation); section 2(a) and (e) of the rA 3019 (graft); and Article Xi, section 2 of the 1987 constitution (betrayal of public trust).
Aside from Duterte, the re-
President Marcos urges priority action...
PAGE 1
passed. Pending versions filed in both chambers propose restrictions preventing close relatives from simultaneously holding or successively occupying elective posts within the same jurisdiction. the independent People’s commission Act would institutionalize a permanent oversight body to succeed the independent commission for infrastructure, created in 2024 to examine irregularities in flood-control and other public works. Lawmakers backing the measure say a statutory commission is needed to provide investigative continuity and a clear legal mandate once the ici completes its temporary term. the Party-list system reform Act aims to tighten the rules governing sectoral representation. reform advocates and legislative researchers have raised concerns that some party-list seats are held by groups not traditionally identified as marginalized. Proposals seek clearer definitions of qualified sectors and stricter accreditation mechanisms.
the cADeNA Act intends to standardize transparency requirements across national agencies, obligating the publication of expenditure records, procure-
ment documents and budget execution reports. supporters say the measure would institutionalize long-needed consistency in public financial disclosure.
What is driving the renewed emphasis on reform
castro said the President instructed congress “to take a closer look at the four bills and prioritize their passage as soon as possible.” she noted that evolving political conditions and growing concerns about abuses of power strengthened the administration’s view that longstanding governance gaps must be addressed.
castro clarified that although the measures are priorities, the President cannot certify the anti-dynasty bill as urgent because constitutional rules allow such certification only during emergencies or calamities. the Palace instead expects regular legislative processing.
executive secretary ralph recto welcomed the reform directive while calling for broad consultations with political groups, civil society and local sectors. Kalookan Bishop and former cBcP president Pablo Virgilio David described the move as “never too late” and said congress now carries responsibility for advancing the reforms.
Where the proposals stand in Congress the measures remain at various early stages. Anti-dynasty proposals are pending in committee in both the house and senate. Drafts of the independent People’s commission Act and the Party-list system reform Act await consolidation for committee discussions. the cADeNA Act is scheduled for technical review ahead of formal hearings. the LeDAc meeting also finalized timelines for passing the 2026 General Appropriations Bill and preparing the enrolled budget for presidential signature.
Where political realities may determine the fate of reform each proposal must undergo committee hearings, amendments and plenary votes in both chambers before reaching a bicameral conference. only a reconciled version can be transmitted to malacañang.
While the administration’s directive places the four bills firmly on the legislative agenda, their future ultimately depends on how congress navigates entrenched political interests, longstanding structural incentives and the complex coalition-building required for reforms that touch core power arrangements. n
Contractor Sarah Discaya surrenders to...
“ghost” project the complaints involve a flood control project in Jose Abad santos, Davao occidental that investigators report as paid for but not found during field verification. the office of the ombudsman has filed charges of malversation of public funds through falsification and violations of the Anti-Graft and corrupt Practices Act against Discaya and several officials of the Department of Public Works and highways. the case is part of a broader review of flood control spending, which investigators say has revealed inconsistencies between documented accomplishments and on-site inspections in several districts. the inquiry remains ongoing, and no court has issued any final judgment in the cases under review.
entered a plea and remains presumed innocent unless a court decides otherwise.
Part of a wider anti-corruption effort the marcos administration has identified alleged flood control anomalies as a priority in its anti-corruption program. marcos announced that the court of Appeals issued a freeze order covering bank accounts, properties and aircraft linked to individuals under investigation. officials from the NBi, the Department of Justice and the office of the ombudsman said more complaints may follow as they continue to examine contractor portfolios, project records and procurement documents from additional regions. they noted that further individuals, including public officials and private contractors, may be included as evidence develops. n
DOJ claims sufficient evidence to charge...
PAGE 1
respondents remain presumed innocent.
the department noted that its full resolution is not yet public as respondents are expected to file motions for reconsideration, which may temporarily delay the filing of charges in court.
Basis for the charges
According to the DoJ, a panel of prosecutors reviewed consolidated complaints from families and law enforcement agencies. the panel claims that the evidence includes affidavits, witness accounts and investigative findings from multiple jurisdictions. A number of the individuals identified are current or former police personnel, as well as civilians allegedly linked to security operations in the online cockfighting industry.
each recommended count corresponds to a specific victim whose disappearance was documented in the complaints. the DoJ emphasized that its mandate at this stage is limited to determining probable cause, and that courts will decide whether the evidence ultimately meets the standard for conviction.
The wider ‘missing sabungeros’ investigation
At least thirty-four individ-
uals were reported missing between 2021 and early 2022 across Laguna, Batangas, Bulacan, manila and nearby areas. many disappeared after attending cockfights or performing work related to online sabong before the industry was suspended.
Public attention intensified in 2025 when witness Julie “Dondon” Patidongan submitted sworn statements alleging that some victims were abducted and killed due to disputes tied to e-sabong operations. his testimony also implicated Ang, allegations the DoJ included in its evaluation but said must be tested in court. two of Patidongan’s brothers have since been accepted as state witnesses in a related branch of the investigation. separate accounts raised earlier in the controversy suggested that some victims may have been killed and dumped in taal Lake, though these claims remain unverified and continue to be evaluated by investigators.
Ang’s response and claims of extortion Ang has repeatedly denied involvement and claims Patidongan attempted to extort money from him. his lawyers have argued that the statements linking
him to the disappearances are fabricated and that the evidence cited by prosecutors is unreliable. Complaints against other individuals dismissed the DoJ also dismissed complaints against several personalities, including actress Gretchen Barretto, due to lack of evidence. the dismissal was issued without prejudice, meaning it may be revisited only if new evidence emerges. The legal process that follows the DoJ findings the DoJ is preparing to file the corresponding criminal informations before regional trial courts. Judges will independently determine whether warrants of arrest should be issued. once raffled, courts will assess the credibility of witnesses, evaluate forensic and documentary evidence and hear counterarguments from the respondents. families of the missing sabungeros welcomed the development but continue to seek clarity on the fate of their relatives. the case now enters a new stage in one of the country’s most closely watched investigations involving civilians, police officers and the former online cockfighting industry. n
Nasa puso namin ang California pero sa Californians nahulog ang loob namin. Dahil tayong lahat, kapwa-Californian.
Anumang kulay, buhay na iniwan, nagsimula't tumubo dito,
buhay na may harana ng daan-daang wika, mga buhay na buhay na buhay at naghahanap ng sapat na pangangalaga—
para sa 'ting kapwa-Californian ang angkop na healthcare.
Di dapat rumaket muna para lang makapagpa-checkup. Di mo dapat ipagpaliban ang pagpapagamot para lang makabayad-upa.
Sagot ka namin, palilinawin. Mapapanatag, mga damdamin.
Hindi kami insurance company. Nandito kami para sa 'yo dahil kapwa-Californian tayo.
Discaya previously appeared before the senate Blue ribbon committee to respond to questions about companies associated with her family. she has not
Sarah Discaya during the Senate’s inquiry at the Blue Ribbon Committee. Senate file photo
YOUTH VS. CORRUPTION. Youth sector representatives join anti-corruption groups during a protest rally marking International Human Rights Day at the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila on Wednesday (Dec. 10, 2025). The demonstrators called for greater transparency and accountability from government officials, emphasizing the need for reforms to ensure that public funds are used effectively and ethically. PNA photo by Yancy Lim
Working while collecting Social Security...
in 2024, 19.5 percent of adults 65 and older stayed in the labor force. Among seniors who worked, 38.3 percent held parttime jobs, reflecting a deliberate move toward lighter schedules rather than complete withdrawal from employment.
economic conditions influence these decisions. inflation continues to push up the cost of housing, groceries, transportation, and medical care. many seniors believe the projected 2026 social security cost-of-living adjustment (coLA), currently estimated at 2.8 percent, will not fully cover rising expenses. surveys show that older Americans continue working to stabilize monthly budgets, maintain savings, and assist family members with childcare, rent, or health-care costs.
in filipino American communities, later-life work often supports remittances and shared household expenses across generations. How social security treats work and earnings the social security Administration allows beneficiaries to work while receiving retirement or sur-
LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN
(LACMTA)
FOR BID
LAcmtA will receive Bids for Ps130321(3) - DisAssemBLe & AssemBLe VerticAL cAroUseL via email at bids@ metro.net on or before 11:00
a.m. Pt on tuesday, January 6, 2026
A Virtual Pre-Bid conference will be held on tuesday, December 9, 2025, 1:00 p.m. refer to the ifB document for Bid opening details. Bids received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. each Bid must be sealed and marked Bid No. Ps130321(3). for a copy of the ifB, visit the metro Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or email Juana ortiz Delgado at ortizdelgadoj@metro.net.
12/13/25
cNs-3993118# AsiAN JoUrNAL (L.A.)
vivors benefits. three sets of rules define how earnings affect benefits: the earnings test, taxation, and benefit recalculations. earnings test claiming benefits before full retirement age (frA) subjects earnings to annual limits. in 2025, ssA withholds $1 in benefits for every $2 earned above $23,400. in the year a beneficiary reaches frA, ssA withholds $1 for every $3earned above $62,160, counting only earnings before frA month. When the worker reaches frA, ssA recalculates the benefit, crediting months when payments
LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION
(LACMTA)
FOR BID
LAcmtA will receive Bids/ Proposals for Dr131635(2)PUrchAse of tWeNtY-foUr (24), NeW eLectric cArts via email at bids@metro.net.
All Bids must be submitted to LAcmtA on or before 10:00 a.m. Pacific time on thursday, January 22, 2026. Details regarding the virtual bid opening are included in the ifB document. Bids received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned. each Bid must be identified as Bid No. Dr131635(2). for a copy of the Proposal/Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email huihsien chiang at chiangs@ metro.net.
12/13/25
cNs-3994025# AsiAN JoUrNAL (L.A.)
were withheld. this recalculation raises the monthly benefit permanently.
Income taxes
Working while collecting benefits can increase the portion of social security subject to federal income tax. taxation begins when “combined income” exceeds $25,000 for single filers or $32,000 for married couples filing jointly. Up to 85 percent of benefits may be taxable at higher income levels.
Higher future benefits
ssA calculates benefits using a worker’s highest 35 years of earnings. if new earnings exceed earlier low-earning years, ssA replaces those years in the formula and increases the benefit accordingly.
The changing architecture of retirement the line between work and retirement has shifted from a single decision to a multi-year adjustment. many seniors rely on employment to counter rising living costs, maintain health insurance, and support family members. filipino American seniors often continue working in caregiving and health-care roles that depend on experienced workers. this evolving model brings advantages and tradeoffs. earnings provide stability, but they can reduce benefits before frA, raise medicare premiums, or increase tax obligations. Physically demanding work may also strain older adults.
As retirement becomes more complex, experts encourage seniors to monitor earnings and benefit estimates through a my social security account and seek professional guidance when needed. for many households, combining work and social security now functions as a deliberate strategy – one that reflects the new architecture of aging, family responsibility, and economic reality in the United states. (AJPress)
Plunder, other charges filed vs Vice President...
PAGE 1
spondents named in the complaint are the following persons:
• Zuleika T. Lopez Undersecretary and chief of staff (office of the Vice President)
• Lemuel G. Ortonio Assistant secretary and Assistant chief of staff, (oVP)
• Rosalynne L. Sanchez, Director for Administrative and financial services, (oVP)
• Julieta L. Villadelrey Chief Accountant (oVP)
• Gina F. Acosta Special Disbursing officer (oVP)
• Col. Raymund Dante P. Lachica commander, Vice Presidential security and Protection Group
• Michael Wesley T. Poa Former Undersecretary, chief of staff of the office of the secretary, and
• Head of Procuring Entity (Department of education)
• Sunshine Charry A. Fajarda Director for strategic management office and former Assistant secretary (Deped)
• Undersecretary Annalyn m sevilla Undersecretary for finance service, Project management service, education Program management service, Government Assistance and subsidies office (Deped)
• Gloria Mercado, former head of Procurement entity and Undersecretary for human resources and regional Development (Deped)
• Ma. Rhunna L. Catalan Chief
Accountant (Deped)
• Edward D. Fajarda, former special Disbursing officer (Deped)
• Ret. Maj. Gen. Nolasco A. mempin, former Undersecretary for Administration (Deped)
• Lt. Col. Dennis Nolasco member of the Vice Presidential security and Protection Group
• John Does. the complaint alleged that the P612.5 million confidential funds were “diverted, misused and concealed through coordinated schemes” carried out across the office of the Vice President and the Department of education,
Bong Revilla submits counter-affidavit as...
in procurement or implementation decisions. his legal team said his filing includes documentary responses addressing each allegation raised in the complaint. the DoJ acknowledged receipt and said the review process remains ongoing. scope of the investigation the complaints naming revilla arise from alleged irregular or “ghost” flood-control projects in Bulacan. According to the DoJ, he and former Ako Bicol representative elizaldy “Zaldy” co are among several respondents in cases involving contracts awarded to private firms, including sYms construction and trading. these cases were referred by oversight bodies that questioned project documentation, physical implementation and procurement compliance. the volume of respondents and supporting records has added to the scale of the DoJ’s review. Prosecutors are assessing filings submitted by all parties
before determining whether clarificatory hearings are needed.
Revilla’s position
revilla’s legal team maintains that the senator did not interfere in the bidding, selection or execution of any flood-control project. they argue that once appropriations are passed, implementation rests with national agencies or local governments, not lawmakers. in public statements, revilla said he welcomed the opportunity to clarify the facts and reiterated that he would continue to cooperate with investigators. his spokesperson said the senator believes the evidence he submitted will address the issues raised in the complaint.
Developments across related cases
Parallel inquiries into other flood-control projects continue across multiple agencies. the office of the ombudsman announced this week that it is preparing resolutions in cases involving two unnamed senior
figures but did not identify the individuals or the specific projects involved.
At the DoJ, prosecutors confirmed they are evaluating whether additional allegations, including possible malversation or plunder, may be applicable to some Bulacan complaints. officials emphasized that these assessments form part of standard investigative procedure and have not resulted in new charges. All individuals named in the flood-control complaints are presumed innocent under Philippine law. the filing of a counter-affidavit is a routine step in the DoJ’s preliminary investigation and does not indicate guilt or wrongdoing. Prosecutors must determine whether evidence establishes probable cause before any case may proceed to court. the DoJ has not provided a timeline for resolution, citing the breadth of evidence and number of respondents involved. n
Sandiganbayan rules Zaldy Co is...
er-affidavits during the ombudsman’s investigation, and remained outside the country after charges were filed. the court said these actions reflected a refusal to face proceedings and met established legal standards for declaring an individual a fugitive.
the ruling cited jurisprudence explaining that a person may be treated as a fugitive if records show an intentional avoidance of legal process, including remaining abroad after the issuance of a warrant. the court clarified that this designation concerns jurisdictional matters, not a determination of guilt.
Three sunwest executives also declared fugitives the same resolution applied the designation to three sunwest construction and Develop-
ment corp. executives named as co-respondents in the case. they include Aderma Angelie Alcazar, identified as company president or chair; treasurer cesar Buenaventura; and board member Noel cao. court records stated that attempts to serve arrest warrants at their listed addresses were unsuccessful. immigration information attached to the motion indicated that at least two had already left the Philippines before the warrants were implemented.
Charges tied to P289.5 million flood control project co and his co-accused face graft and malversation through falsification charges involving a P289.5 million flood control project in Naujan, oriental mindoro. Prosecutors allege discrepancies between project reports and findings from field
inspections. the sandiganbayan has consolidated the cases for joint trial once all accused are placed under the court’s jurisdiction. some respondents have already appeared; others remain at large.
Implications for enforcement the court’s directive provides the DfA with the formal basis it previously said was necessary before revoking a passport. With cancellation in effect, law enforcement agencies may seek assistance from foreign governments, including notices to partner jurisdictions regarding co’s fugitive status. officials emphasized that the fugitive designation relates only to questions of jurisdiction and compliance. All individuals charged in the case remain presumed innocent unless proven otherwise in court. n
Two bills in US Congress reignite scrutiny...
According to the bill text, the goal is to gain a clearer statistical understanding of how many U.s residents hold citizenship in another country. the bill does not prohibit, penalize, or redefine dual citizenship. it remains strictly a data-gathering measure. the proposal has been referred to the house committee on oversight and Accountability. As of this writing, no hearings or markups have been scheduled. the bill’s sponsor, a freshman congressman, has argued that “the American people deserve to know” how widespread dual citizenship is. critics of the proposal have raised concerns about potential misuse of the data, although no enforcement mechanisms or penalties are outlined in the current draft. if passed, the measure would apply to the next decennial census and would make dual citizenship a standard census category, similar to race, ancestry, and language.
senate bill seeks to eliminate dual nationality in contrast, a more sweeping proposal in the senate aims to outlaw dual citizenship altogether. the bill, informally known as the exclusive citizenship Act of
2025,” was introduced by sen. Bernie moreno (r-ohio) and has been referred to the senate committee on the Judiciary.
According to the published bill text, U.s. citizens would be prohibited from holding any foreign citizenship. individuals who already possess dual citizenship would be required to renounce one nationality within one year of the law’s enactment. failure to comply would result in the automatic forfeiture of U.s citizenship. furthermore, the bill states that any U.s. citizen who acquires foreign nationality after the law takes effect would be considered to have voluntarily relinquished their American citizenship. the bill also outlines procedures for creating a federal registry of dual nationals and directs agencies such as the Department of state and Department of homeland security to coordinate enforcement. supporters say the measure is intended to clarify exclusive national loyalty. critics, including legal scholars and immigrant-rights groups, have called it legally questionable and constitutionally vulnerable, citing decades of U.s supreme court precedent that protects against
involuntary loss of citizenship. As of press time, no Democratic senator has co-sponsored the legislation. Legal and policy backdrop current U.s. law permits dual citizenship. the state Department recognizes that many Americans hold multiple nationalities, particularly by birth, marriage, or naturalization. the U.s supreme court has ruled repeatedly that citizenship cannot be stripped unless an individual knowingly and voluntarily relinquishes it. Both bills arrive amid a broader political discourse on national identity, loyalty, and immigration. While the house bill reflects a bureaucratic impulse to quantify and track dual citizens, the senate measure represents a more ideological approach that seeks to redefine citizenship itself. Whether either bill advances remains uncertain. With a divided congress and a short legislative calendar, neither chamber has scheduled floor votes. still, the proposals have already drawn attention from advocacy groups, naturalization experts, and constitutional lawyers monitoring how U.s. lawmakers approach the evolving question of dual allegiance. (AJPress)
Pexels.com photo by RDNE Stock project
Civil society leaders file plunder and other cases against Vice President Sara Duterte and 15 others at the Ombudsman on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. Inquirer.net photo by Faith Argosino
DAteline PhiliPPines
Nationwide waterway cleanup gains momentum as DPWH targets major flood chokepoints
The DPWH accelerates Metro Manila waterway clearing under Marcos’s directive, expanding nationwide dredging to improve flood resilience ahead of future rainy seasons
by AJPress
mANiLA — the Department of Public Works and highways
(DPWh) is intensifying the clearing of major waterways in metro manila and key provincial cities as part of continuing instructions from President ferdinand “Bongbong” marcos Jr. to reduce flooding and restore long-neglected drainage systems ahead of future rainy seasons.
the expanded effort follows repeated storms that have overwhelmed urban drainage networks in recent years. officials say sustained clearing is necessary because waterways lose capacity quickly when clogged by silt, debris and illegal structures. expanded clearing stems from earlier launch the ongoing campaign builds on the government’s earlier rollout of the Greater metro manila Waterways clearing and cleaning operations, where marcos and Public Works secretary Vince Dizon supervised dredging at Balihatar creek in Parañaque city. san miguel corporation president and ceo ramon Ang joined the launch as smc participated in the opening-day operations alongside national and local government agencies.
the program covers more than 140 kilometers of rivers, creeks and esteros and over 330 kilometers of drainage linesacross metro manila. many of these channels had become heavily constricted after years of accumulated silt and obstructions, contributing to chronic flooding across several districts.
Focus on high-risk chokepoints
DPWh engineers are targeting specific corridors where restricted flow contributes to severe and recurring floods. Priority work includes:
• Restoring depth in frequently
overflowing rivers
• Removing blockages in esteros constricted by encroachments
• Rehabilitating drainage lines that regularly back up during intense rainfall
• Improving flow toward key pumping stations. officials say these interventions are necessary to give the capital’s drainage network a stronger chance of holding up during peak weather events.
Cleanup model now being applied nationwide President marcos has instructed DPWh to replicate the clearing model in other flood-prone cities and provinces. District engineers were ordered to update inventories of clogged waterways and identify immediate dredging needs. older assessments show that many provincial rivers have not undergone significant maintenance in years, making them vulnerable during typhoons and prolonged monsoon rains. the ongoing nationwide rollout aims to close those long-standing maintenance gaps and strengthen the country’s overall flood-mitigation capacity. Reforms accompany the cleanup
the waterway clearing comes alongside institution-wide reforms within DPWh. As part of the administration’s oversight measures, Dizon ordered senior officials to submit courtesy resignations and said contractors found responsible for substandard flood works would be barred from future government projects.
New flood-control proposals must also undergo stricter hydrological and engineering validation before approval. officials say these safeguards are intended to ensure that public funds are directed to effective, evidence-based solutions.
Progress tied to real-world outcomes DPWh acknowledges that clearing and dredging alone will not eliminate flooding, but engineers say the work is essential for long-term management. the key benchmark is whether neighborhoods drain faster, major roads remain passable and communities experience fewer disruptions when the next major storm arrives.
residents are expected to judge the effort by those real-world results rather than by the total number of kilometers cleared. n
2 more years of ICI work possible – Hosaka
by EJ Macababbad Philstar.com
mANiLA — the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) can continue fulfilling its mandate for at least two years, regardless of the challenges faced by the fact-finding body, according to its executive director.
ici chairman Andres reyes
Jr. on Wednesday mentioned a two-year timespan for the commission, created by President marcos to investigate anomalous infrastructure projects over the past 10 years.
“The sheer volume itself is huge, so, definitely, maybe that’s where Reyes is coming from when he said two years,” ici executive director Brian Keith hosaka told the stAr’s online show “truth on the Line” on thursday, adding, “It can even be longer.” hosaka said the commission’s different working parts are now beginning to function. the Department of Budget and management (DBm) has already downloaded P39 million of the ici’s P41-million budget, enabling the commission to pay staffers who have been working without wages since september. the funding, which is only good until the end of 2025, will also pave the way for the hiring process to commence—a crucial component given the thousands of documents that the commission needs to scour.
We want to hire as many lawyers, accountants, and even engi-
neers as possible so that we can complete our staff,” hosaka said. The more we complete our staff, the better for our operations and efficiency.” hosaka said he will consult with the Governance commission on the 2026 budget and other administrative matters, which require approval from the DBm
At a house technical working group meeting, the executive director said the ici needs about P500 million each year to run its operations on full gear, including deploying validators in far-flung areas, which ultimately entails costs. since its creation in mid-september, the ici has been zeroing in on 421 ghost flood control projects it considers “low-hanging fruit” in the corruption probe. it further narrowed its target to about 80 projects awarded to the top 15 contractors that bagged the most flood deals nationwide.
Fajardo quitting?
But two original members of the commission chipped away just three months after its inception. first was ici special adviser and Baguio city mayor Benjamin magalong, whose tussle with the Palace left him insulted. then there was ici commissioner rogelio singson, who admitted that his 77-year-old body could not manage the stress of investigating thousands of anomalous public works. magalong has been replaced by former police chief rodolfo Azurin Jr., who has proven him-
self an asset in coordinating with his comrades at the Philippine National Police. It’s a big thing that Azurin has networks with the CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group) and contacts with the PNP,” hosaka said. “That’s why coordination with the police becomes smooth.” u
All proposals must be received on or before 10:00 a.m. Pacific time on monday, January 12, 2026 at the address listed above, sent to the attention of connie fan. Proposals received later than the above date and time will be rejected and returned to the proposer unopened. for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email connie fan at fanc@metro.net. 12/13/25 cNs-3994016# AsiAN JoUrNAL (L.A.)
ICI chairman Andres Reyes Jr. on Wednesday mentioned a two-year timespan for the commission, created by President Marcos to investigate anomalous infrastructure projects over the past 10 years. Philstar.com photo by Miguel De Guzman
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and San Miguel Corporation president and CEO Ramon Ang, shown here with DPWH officials in a file photo during the dredging operations at Balihatar Creek in Parañaque City during the launch of Oplan Kontra Baha in November. Malacañang photo
OPiniOn FeAtures
Why the Philippines still needs an anti-dynasty
The promise the Constitution made and the one Congress has yet to keep
law
Nearly four decades after the 1987 Constitution instructed Congress to regulate political dynasties, the mandate remains unaddressed. It has remained untouched because Congress has repeatedly avoided confronting a system that benefits many of its own members. The result is a political landscape where power continues to cluster in ways that limit competition, narrow public participation and slow the emergence of new leadership.
President ferdinand marcos Jr. has directed congress to prioritize an anti-dynasty measure along with other political reforms. it is among the clearest signals from the executive branch in years. Whether this becomes a turning point depends on whether lawmakers are willing to legislate against the networks that have long shaped Philippine politics. A reform movement with long roots human rights lawyer and legislator chel Diokno has been one of the most consistent voices calling for the enforcement of the constitutional mandate. he argues that regulating dynasties is not about penalizing families but about ensuring equal access to public service. his view sits within a broader field of reform advocates. in the senate, risa hontiveros has filed the Kontra Dinastiya Act, a renewed attempt to place limits on simultaneous officeholding among relatives. senator Panfilo Lacson, who now serves as senate President Pro tempore, has expressed support for reasonable
Babe Romualdez
WheNeVer the United states announces an adjustment to its immigration policies, we receive a lot of inquiries, and entire communities across America brace for impact. the headlines are often dramatic, the rhetoric emotional, with advocacy groups quick to sound the alarm. But as the dust settles around the latest enforcement measures being rolled out, one fact that many officials here in Washington, D.c. readily acknowledge is that filipinos are not necessarily targeted by these changes. Not even remotely. the filipino community remains one of the most respected immigrant groups in the U.s from nurses and caregivers to engineers, professionals and service workers, filipinos have become indispensable contributors to the American economy and society. more importantly, we have demonstrated a consistent respect for U.s. laws, institutions and civic norms. that reputation matters –immensely. this is precisely why the recent tightening of immigration enforcement, particularly along
Editorial
guardrails on concentrated political power. the late senators miriam Defensor santiago and Aquilino Nene Pimentel filed early versions of anti-dynasty legislation, and former senator Koko Pimentel, who left office in 2025, repeatedly pursued similar measures. outside government, retired supreme court justice Antonio carpio, now a public advocate and convenor of the reform coalition 1Sambayan, has continued to remind congress that it has a constitutional obligation to act. in the house, reform-oriented legislators filed house Bill 5905 in November, proposing a comprehensive framework that bars close relatives from holding or running for office at the same time. The evidence that now shapes the debate
A growing body of research has strengthened the case for reform. earlier studies led by scholars from the Ateneo school of Government examined provincial-level data and found a repeated correlation between dynastic concentration and areas that struggle
New US immigration policy
America’s southern border, does not directly affect the overwhelming majority of filipinos. Unlike other nationalities caught up in irregular entries or mass border crossings, filipinos typically enter through legal, documented pathways – employment visas, family-based petitions, medical recruitment programs or other structured processes that are lawful. the perception of filipinos as law-abiding and constructive members of society is one of our greatest diplomatic assets. however, there is a small minority of our citizens whose circumstances are more complicated – those who overstayed visas or entered without proper documentation. their fears are real, and their situations deserve empathy. many simply sought better opportunities, driven by the desire to support families back home. But even as we extend compassion, we must also acknowledge a fundamental truth that no serious policymaker here will dispute: immigration enforcement in the United states is based on legality, not nationality.
Adding to the anxiety is this proposed bill by ohio republican senator Bernie moreno requiring those with dual citizenships to renounce any foreign citizenship within a year or lose their U.s
nationality, framing it as “America only” or nothing. for filipino Americans, having dual citizenship provides one of the greatest links of Us-Philippines people-to-people ties.
Already, some of our friends in the U.s. congress are certain the bill will likely not pass. this was echoed by a top lawyer friend, saying the supreme court has already addressed dual citizenship during the 1950s and has maintained that position over the decades – and this bill will surely face significant legal challenges. in fact, first Lady melania trump and her son Barron reportedly have slovenian and American citizenship, and this bill could also impact major trump supporters who have American and israeli citizenship. Unfortunately, some activist organizations are framing the immigration issue as if filipinos are being “targeted” or “persecuted.” they distort facts and risk drawing negative attention to a community that has worked for decades to build a sterling reputation. No nation, including the U.s., reacts well to being taunted or publicly accused of discriminatory enforcement without evidence. emotional posturing may generate headlines, but it does little to
with persistent economic distress. these studies also identified what researchers call fat political dynasties, meaning families that hold several elected positions at the same time. the term distinguishes these horizontally expanding clans from so-called thin dynasties, where only one relative occupies an elected post in a given cycle. the scholars stressed that their findings do not prove causation, since poverty is shaped by geography, conflict and long-standing structural inequalities. even so, their work high-
lighted a political environment where concentrated power often limits competition and weakens public accountability.
more recent research has expanded that picture.
A 2025 study titled the families that stay together uses nearly two decades of election data and network-analysis tools to map how dynastic power consolidates and evolves across jurisdictions and election cycles. Unlike the earlier socioeconomic studies, u PAGE 7
eVeNts during the last few months have reawakened in many filipinos the feeling of patriotism. We have come to realize that the Philippines is really a beautiful and rich country that is suffering poverty because of the corruption of its leaders, especially its political elite. there are events that have awakened in us this feeling of pride. there is the unexpected victory of social democrats like chel Diokno and Akbayan and courageous reformers like members of the Liberal Party, Kiko Pangilinan and Leila de Lima. there are, of course, events that have made us feel that this is going to be a difficult struggle to remove the network of corrupt family dynasties. one such event is the resignation of former DPWh secretary Babes singson. however, even with such setbacks, the fight must continue. one way of recapturing our momentum is the inspiration of our past history, which is a witness to our exceptionally beautiful geography and the rich natural resources we are blessed with.
in recent history, the filipino people has always redeemed themselves as a people from any accusation of lack of love of country. the most vivid examples of this are the People Power movements which have actually been led, not by family dynasties and elitist groups, but by the youth, religious sectors and the middle class which have led to the overthrow of corrupt and dictatorial regimes. every time i feel like giving up on the Philippines as so many have done, i read literature on the history of the filipino people, its geography and its local traditions. one such book is “the Philippines: history, Geography, customs, Agriculture, industry and commerce of the spanish colonies in oceania” by Jean mallat first published in french in 1846, with the english translation by Pura santillan-castrence, published by the National historical commission of the Philippines in 2021. this is a monumental work of 19th century scholarship that provides detailed descriptions of the islands’ geography, people and economy during the early to the mid-1800s. mallat was a french diplomat
and traveler who spent several years in the archipelago. it provides a window into how the Philippines was perceived by european observers in the colonial era. it is set during the height of spanish colonialism in the Philippines, and he approaches the subject with the curiosity of a foreign intellectual eager to understand an unfamiliar world. though mallat is largely respectful in tone, his eurocentric lens is apparent, especially in the way he contrasts “civilization” with indigenous practices. Nonetheless, he is often critical of spanish abuses and colonial mismanagement, especially at the local level. one passage stands out for its sharp observation on governance: “Nothing is more fatal to the country than the permission granted to the mayors to trade for their own account; the result is that they think only of making a fortune at the expense of the local inhabitants whose interests, on the contrary, are their first duty to defend.” mallat’s nuanced perspective is manifest as he is both appreciative of the richness of Philipu PAGE 7
the military institution has a long memory and its senior general had personally lived through the dilemma of an intervention.
At a house in the gated corinthian Gardens in Quezon city, just near the Armed forces General headquarters in camp Aguinaldo, senior generals were in a serious meeting that would decide the fate of then President Joseph estrada in January 2001. the late general Angelo reyes, who was chief of staff, was supposed to preside over a meeting to discuss the appointments and promotions of military officers. reyes was with the vice chief of staff, the deputy chief of staff, the three service commanders and the deputy chief of staff for personnel (J-1), who served as the secretary of the board of generals.
But the purely administrative
business turned political as a popular uprising was happening a stone’s throw away at the eDsA shrine.
the people were demanding the ouster of estrada over corruption issues after a senate impeachment trial was abruptly disrupted by a walkout of some senator-judges.
estrada’s political allies had blocked the opening of a sealed envelope which contained details of corruption allegations against the immensely popular leader.
estrada faced allegations of accepting bribes from operators of illegal number games, kickbacks from tobacco taxes and insider trading at the Philippine stock exchange. reyes was in a dilemma. he could not decide whether to support the protest, which had run for three days, or the president who had appointed him to head the Armed forces in July 1999.
members of the Philippine military Academy (PmA) class of 1969 dominated the board of generals, including the chiefs of the Air force and Navy.
But there were disagreements among them whether to intervene or not. some would not want a repeat of what had happened in the numerous coup attempts against former president corazon Aquino from 1986 to 1990. they don’t want to see soldiers fighting against soldiers, fracturing the military that could benefit the enemies of the state, primarily the New People’s Army.
Benjamin Defensor, a major general who headed the Philippine Air force, was determined to stay apolitical. his sister, then senator miriam Defensor-santiago, was a staunch ally of the president, and he was hoping to succeed
the end of the year is where dreams and reality meet. the end of things tends to bring out an urge to reflect on the time that has gone by. We evaluate ourselves to see whether we have done the things we set out to do. We think back on the highs and lows of the year that was. hopefully, we also reflect on the things we have learned and the wisdom we have gained. While the start of the year is all about dreams and resolutions, by December, our dreams brush up against reality. We see where our intentions took us. Did they lead us to happiness? contentment? Did they lead us astray and distract us from things that, we belatedly realize, matter more? in organizations, this reflection manifests as the fourth quarter review and strategic planning. We recently had such a meeting at our clinical organization, where
we aimed to set our vision for the next five to 10 years. the discussion turned toward each member’s dreams for themselves, as well as the organization, with the hope that improving the alignment between individual and collective visions can lead to better growth. one person brought up a concern: What if their mentee does not dream?
i realized then that dreaming has increasingly become a luxury, especially for filipinos. Dreaming requires space for growth. to dream means to recognize a direction for change or expansion. to dream requires recognition of our potential and trust that the environment can help us actualize it. if there is no such space, there are no dreams. Upward social mobility is a socioeconomic construct built on dreams. the concept of being able to improve one’s economic standing—whether through hard work, luck, or generational wealth—hinges on its possibility. if our experience instead shows us the contrary, that we are stuck
in financial precariousness no matter what we do, then what use is it to strive hard to improve one’s lot in life?
this is one of the many ways that economics intersects with mental health. if our wages remain stagnant while our cost of living accelerates, how else can we experience it but as a sort of drowning? if our life savings can be wiped out with one hospital stay, how else can we feel about our lives but as a sandcastle swept away by the waves of the sea? in such a state where survival is fragile, one cannot afford to dream of a better life. one does not design their dream life when one is too busy preserving their real one. Last week, i already talked about the infamous P500 ”noche buena” budget. one of the things it did to us was that it robbed us of dreaming of a better experience, a better life. Pertaining to the dream-reality balance, it slammed us with the reality that that is all we can afford. that idyllic picture of a glazed ham with all the fix-
ElfrEn S. Cruz
AnnA CriStinA tuAzon
MAnuEl MogAto
A look at the Philippines in...
pine society and critical of colonial exploitation. mallat was in awe of our geography and one shamefully wonders how much of this natural beauty we have preserved or squandered. he romanticizes the landscape, Nature seems to have exhausted her treasures to give to this savage soil what she has of the richest and the most beautiful...” mallat’s observations on filipino customs are among the most valuable sections of the book. he is particularly interested in how indigenous customs interacted with spanish culture. he notes that while catholicism was dominant, many pre-colonial beliefs and rituals persisted. his respectful tone sets him apart from more dismissive colonial writers of the time, although he still exhibits an outsider’s gaze. mallat also pays special at-
PAGE 6
tention to ethnic diversity in the colony – mestizos, chinese merchants, spaniards and various indigenous groups. his detailed ethnographic notes, though imperfect by modern standards, remain a crucial source of information for historians.
mallat noted that agriculture was the backbone of the colonial economy and on the limitations of the agricultural system under spanish rule – poor infrastructure, heavy taxation and lack of modernization. “the Philippines possess inexhaustible agricultural riches, but the lack of roads and internal communication prevents the full development of their potential.” this again leads us to ask – how different is our agricultural scene today? one of the most informative aspects of the book is mallat’s discussion of trade and commerce. he details how manila functioned as a trade hub, both
within southeast Asia and globally. he covers the manila-Acapulco Galleon trade, though it had declined by his time. he expressed frustration at how most profits from the colonial economy flowed to spain or to spanish elites in manila.
While a valuable resource on our colonial past, readers are cautioned to approach the text critically, aware of its historical limitations and the colonial attitudes that underpin parts of its narrative. modern historiography would benefit from comparing mallat’s accounts with indigenous sources and postcolonial perspectives. (Philstar.com)
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * Email: elfrencruz@gmail.com
The power of dreams
ings? stop dreaming and make do. the powerful are afraid of a nation that dreams. there is a final phase of colonization, after external force and coercion, where the colonized internalize their colonizers and start oppressing themselves. once colonization of the mind happens, we consider colonization complete. the colonizers can sit back and relax and trust that the colonized will no longer fight back. they could even fight on your behalf. to reach this point, however, you must first control their dreams. You can either stop them from dreaming completely or dictate what they can dream about. this is why oppressive governments hate writers and artists, since they encourage people to dream and imagine.
this is why Jose rizal and his writings were such a threat to the spanish government. this is why censorship—sometimes disguised as antilibel and anticyberbullying—is the weapon of choice for most governments that want to control their nation’s narrative. Without a dream, people stop fighting back. People stop fighting for change. if you can supplant their dreams with a dream convenient to your regime, even better. if you delude them into thinking that their meager wages are more than enough, you have successfully stopped them from wanting more. if you lead them to think that building more roads and flyovers—while, in reality, pocketing those funds for your own use—leads to less traffic and therefore a better life, you will get no dissent nor any interest in regulating your projects.
if you convince your people that corruption is already being successfully rooted out, while being very selective in who gets jail time and who gets a pass, then your people will no longer dream of genuine good governance.
having a dream is a sign of a healthy society. Allowing people to have their own dreams is a sign of a free society. the existence of dreams indicates that people see room for growth and expansion. it also indicates a yearning for freedom. Dreams allow us to explore our potential, inviting us to imagine a better life. (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.
aatuazon@up.edu.ph
The trauma of a military...
reyes as chief of staff.
Defensor eventually became chief of staff under former president Gloria macapagal-Arroyo, but only for 79 days.
Although Arroyo did not fully trust Defensor, she was forced to appoint him as her third military chief after then generals Diomedio Villanueva and roy cimatu because he was the most senior general in 2002. When the board of generals decided to step in and side with the people, then defense secretary orlando mercado, another estrada ally, and then vice president Arroyo met with the senior generals at the corinthian Gardens before reyes and five other generals went on stage at the eDsA shrine to declare support to the people and withdraw allegiance to estrada.
But it was not an easy decision. the military’s withdrawal of support that cut short estrada’s single, six-year term still traumatized senior generals to this day.
it was just like a coup.
it was an extra-constitutional measure, although there was a peaceful transition of power from estrada to Arroyo.
that could be one reason why Armed forces chief of staff Gen. romeo Brawner Jr. did not entertain the idea of intervening when some retired generals tried to convince him to abandon President ferdinand marcos Jr. Brawner was an aide de camp
of then Army chief Villanueva. Villanueva succeeded reyes as chief of staff when Arroyo named the latter as defense secretary in march 2001.
As a field grade officer, Brawner knew the dilemma faced by senior generals during eDsA 2, as he personally witnessed how his superiors debated whether to intervene in a popular protest. Brawner learned his lessons through his personal experiences. he was no stranger to politics. he stood his ground. it was only strange that some right-wing groups shared the left-wing idea of installing a civilian-military council as a caretaker government should President marcos voluntarily resign or be forced out from power. some retired generals, led by romeo Poquiz, have called on marcos to resign due to corruption issues and the President’s sister’s allegations that he is a drug user. they wanted Vice President sara Duterte to replace marcos, but they are also open to the idea of a civilian-military council to run the state.
sen. Panfilo Lacson, a former chief of the Philippine National Police, admitted he was approached by some retired generals, offering him to sit in a transition council. incidentally, the makabayan bloc in the Lower house also pushed a transition council to replace marcos. the left-wing group also wanted Duterte to quit her position.
the proposals are both unconstitutional and are impossible. marcos and Duterte would not voluntarily resign from their positions. it would also be impossible for the Armed forces to intervene. the military will also not oust marcos and would not support a politician with known pro-china leanings to replace the President.
the Armed forces would not participate in an action that would call for a “political reset” to end the political crisis that also threatened the health of the country’s economy.
But the military would remain vigilant, watching closely the roman catholic bishops-led Nov. 30 protest to demand accountability on people behind the billion-peso infrastructure anomalies.
it doesn’t want the country to plunge into chaos and greater political stability. it would remain apolitical and a professional organization.
the military institution has a long memory and its senior general had personally lived through the dilemma of an intervention. (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.
* * * Manuel Mogato is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and defense editor of One News.
2 more years of ICI work possible...
hosaka hopes that President marcos will appoint an engineer to replace singson as the ici moves from examining ghost to substandard projects.
“We’re not even going to the nitty-gritty of substandard works. Are the steel and cement used correct? Those are the things that an engineer would be able to help the commission with,” he said.
“Maybe if there’s someone to replace Singson, it would be good if we have the technical knowledge and, at the same time, institutional knowledge of the DPWH similar to his,” he added.
Cabral subpoenaed meanwhile, the ici has summoned, among others, resigned DPWh undersecretary maria catalina cabral on Dec. 15, the last day the commission will hear testimonies for now. it also coincides with the last day of singson as ici commissioner, with no indication that he will extend until Dec. 31.
cabral has featured prominently in several ici interim reports, having been recommended by the commission for administrative charges of grave misconduct and gross dishonesty, along with former DPWh top brass, over anomalous flood works.
in the most recent interim report, the ici found that cabral and former DPWh secretary manuel Bonoan had direct supervision of questionable insertions from the very beginning of the budget process. cabral, according to the ici, took care of her own allocations, while Bonoan’s were handled by former DPWh undersecretary roberto Bernardo. hosaka did not disclose why the ici subpoenaed cabral, but he said that “there is information that the commission would want to get from her.” Cabral resigned in september.
After Dec. 15, the ici will focus on case build-up, scouring thousands of documents turned over by the PNP. hosaka has no definitive number for how many more referrals the ici will make before the ombudsman, but he explained that once there is enough evidence for a particular case, the commission can refer it already.
As to private citizens submitting complaints, the ici will have to assess their veracity and completeness before taking action. We accept them for whatever it’s worth, but we have to verify it,” he said at a press briefing on thursday.
Why the Philippines still needs an...
PAGE 6
this research focuses on how political families connect with one another, how their influence spreads and how tightly their networks are structured. the study offers the most detailed mapping of dynastic power to date and concludes that these networks are not only extensive but increasingly embedded in the country’s political architecture. taken together, the two strands of research show both the social consequences and the structural durability of dynastic politics. one reveals how concentrated power can accompany slower development. the other shows how difficult that concentration has become to unwind.
A systemic problem that cannot be solved by personalities reform advocates do not argue that every political family governs poorly. many officials from political families serve effectively. the issue is structural. A system that allows one family to hold multiple offices at the same time restricts the space for challengers, narrows policy debate and makes it harder for new leaders to emerge.
PAGE 6
And the probe on anomalous infrastructure projects would persist despite contractor sarah Discaya surrendering to the National Bureau of investigation.
The problem is not only attached to the Discayas. There are a lot more. We will continue our investigation regardless of who the personalities are,” hosaka said. for now, the ici is thankful that Discaya has turned herself in and the passport of resigned lawmaker Zaldy co has been canceled.
Asked about these developments, ici chairperson reyes said on Wednesday: “We’re being blessed by God.” With President marcos speeding up congress to deliberate bills creating an independent commission with more teeth, hosaka expressed a preference for the powers listed in the house’s version. from a lawyer’s perspective, he said, the proposed independent commission Against infrastructure corruption has the authority to hold witnesses in contempt, issue hold-departure orders, cancel passports and seize assets. commission members are also immune from lawsuits to prevent harassment. n
A democracy that leans heavily on inherited power slowly becomes less responsive to its voters and less capable of adapting to new demands. this is not a critique of individual officials but a recognition that a political structure built around lineage does not provide the openness and flexibility that modern governance requires.
An anti-dynasty law would not remove political families from public life. it would create fair boundaries that allow leadership to circulate and give communities a broader field of capable candidates.
A narrowing window for change
With house Bill 5905 advancing in the house and the Kontra Dinastiya Act gaining attention in the senate, this congress faces a rare legislative opening. Public frustration over corruption and governance failures has fueled louder calls for structural reform. civil society groups, academics and reform coalitions view this moment as the strongest chance in years to move the issue from constitutional aspiration to actual policy.
the country’s most urgent challenges, including climate resilience, economic restructuring and the growing responsibilities of local governments, require a political system that rewards performance rather than pedigree. reform advocates like Diokno argue that regulating dynastic dominance is a necessary step toward building stronger and more accountable public institutions. A test of democratic credibility the Philippines does not lack clarity about its political weaknesses. What it lacks is corrective action. After nearly four decades of delay, passing an anti-dynasty law will not resolve every dysfunction. it will, however, affirm a principle embedded in the constitution. Public office is a public trust and not a family entitlement. congress now faces a decision that will shape the credibility of Philippine democracy. reform advocates, scholars and citizens have kept the issue alive. the question is whether lawmakers will finally act on a promise the nation has waited far too long to see fulfilled. (AJPress)
New US immigration policy
help undocumented filipinos who genuinely need legal solutions. i have had countless conversations with U.s. officials, legislators, senior state Department personnel, local government leaders – and the message is remarkably consistent: filipinos are among the most responsible immigrants in America. We work hard, we integrate naturally and hardly ever complain. our strong work ethic and contribution to essential sectors like health care, technology and services have generated deep respect. hundreds of filipino Americans also serve in the U.s armed forces.
Jeopardizing this goodwill by allowing a few loud voices to provoke unnecessary confrontation would be a strategic mistake. it is not advocacy to encourage undocumented filipinos to defy U.s law enforcement, neither is it responsible to portray the U.s. as unfairly targeting filipinos when this is demonstrably untrue. it is certainly not helpful to mislead our kababayans into thinking that defiance or political theatrics will resolve their legal challenges. the wiser path – the truly filipino path – is grounded in respect
for the rule of law and pragmatism, not through needless provocation. many undocumented filipinos have quietly regularized their status through legitimate legal channels: U-visas, family petitions, employer sponsorships or via relief available to victims of crime or abuse. these remedies exist, and reputable lawyers and community organizations pursue them.
Groups deliberately challenging or taunting U.s. authorities on immigration policies do not speak for the millions of filipinos who value this relationship and understand its importance; they represent only themselves.
Let me emphasize: the new U.s. immigration measures do not single out filipinos. they are intended to manage large-scale, irregular migration flows that primarily originate elsewhere. Policy concerns are centered on border security, human trafficking and the sheer volume of undocumented individuals entering through non-legal means. filipinos are not the focus because, for the most part, filipinos are law abiding. our community’s strength in the U.s. and elsewhere has always come from our quiet dignity, our
resilience and our deep respect for countries that welcome us. We succeed because we integrate, not antagonize. We thrive because we respect the law, not because we flout or challenge it. the message to fellow filipinos should be clear: seek legal assistance, not confrontation. Avoid inflammatory rhetoric; focus on solutions. Preserve the hardearned goodwill that filipinos enjoy in this country. in my years here in Washington, D.c i have seen how respect – quiet, steady, consistent – opens more doors than any street protest or loud accusation ever could. Let us continue to be known as a community that values the rule of law, contributes meaningfully and carries itself with grace. And this is why filipinos are appreciated worldwide – not because we demand special treatment, but because we are good people. (Philstar.com)
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com
DILG chief on Bato: We know where he is
by EmmanuEl Tupas Philstar.com
mANiLA — sen. ronald “Bato” dela rosa has been monitored in six places for the past three weeks, interior secretary Jonvic remulla said.
Authorities are tracking Dela rosa’s movement amid reports that the international criminal court (icc) has issued an arrest warrant for him.
remulla said officials are aware of the senator’s location, but they have to play it cool” since Dela rosa is not yet considered a fugitive.
“We know where he is and we’re still waiting to see if the court has actually issued an order (for his arrest),” remulla told GmA News.
if an icc warrant is formally transmitted, remulla said the supreme court’s ruling on extradition procedures will apply.
Dela rosa has been absent in the senate since Nov. 11, after ombudsman Jesus crispin remulla revealed that the icc had ordered his arrest in the crimes against humanity case of detained former President rodrigo Duterte. citing information they have received, remulla said Dela rosa has been hiding at his friends’ houses.
“When he relocates, they drive different cars,” he noted. remulla declined to disclose Dela rosa’s current location since it is confidential. on facebook, Dela rosa’s wife Nancy posted a photo of them together.
“Thanks for dropping by. Missed you,” Nancy wrote. With Dela rosa incognito, remulla said authorities will not arrest him unless there is an actionable document from official
sources.
“Extrajudicial means of prosecuting the law are outdated. You do it according to the book,” he said. Roque appeals passport cancellation
As for the fugitive harry roque, the former presidential spokesman said he filed on tuesday a motion for reconsideration of the cancellation of his passport.
A Pasig court canceled the passports of roque and his co-accused cassandra Li ong over human trafficking charges.
roque insisted that he is not a fugitive and his continued stay in europe is justified as he has applied for asylum in the Netherlands.
roque lodged his asylum application on march 19, long before a complaint was filed with the court. (With reports from Bella Cariaso, Mark Ernest Villeza)
Lacson: Blue Ribbon flood control probe over soon
by marc Jayson cayabyab Philstar.com
mANiLA — the senate Blue ribbon committee investigation on flood control corruption will soon wrap up to give way to the cases filed in court, senate President Pro tempore Panfilo Lacson confirmed. in a chance interview, Lacson said his committee would come up with a report and recommend charges, as it would soon be bound by the sub judice rule if the flood control corruption cases go on trial in the sandiganbayan and other lower courts. however, he said he was glad to have led the committee which contributed to the Department of Justice and independent commission for infrastructure investigations on the alleged kickbacks scheme from substandard or non-existent projects.
“By and large, we have contributed a lot to the efforts of the national government to get to the bottom of this,” Lacson noted. in a separate ambush interview, senate President Vicente sotto iii
said the resource persons detained in the senate due to the flood control corruption probe would spend christmas and New Year while under custody for contempt. the senate would provide them noche buena or a christmas feast if it comes to that, he said. Among those under senate custody for contempt are dismissed Department of Public Works and highways district engineers henry Alcantara, Brice hernandez, Jaypee mendoza, and flood control contractor curlee Discaya. sarah Discaya: I feel safe at NBI meanwhile, curlee’s wife sarah on Wednesday said she is confident about her safety under the custody of the National Bureau of investigation (NBi) as she awaits the possible issuance of an arrest warrant in connection with alleged anomalous flood control projects. in an interview with ABs-cBN News, Discaya said she voluntarily went to the NBi on tuesday but stressed that her appearance should not be taken as surrender.
“This is more of safekeeping. Only those who run away are
guilty,” she said.
Discaya admitted that the situation has taken an emotional toll on her and her children.
“My kids are affected. I try to stay strong for them. You want to cry but you stop yourself so they won’t see it,” she said.
Discaya added she felt “some relief” after being placed in NBi custody, saying she is now “somewhere safe.”
Discaya and several DPWh personnel in Davao occidental face malversation and falsification charges over a nearly P100-million ghost project. the NBi earlier reported that eight DPWh officials had also voluntarily submitted themselves to the agency.
According to interior and Local Government secretary Jonvic remulla, Discaya’s surrender is a “big help” to authorities, as it demonstrates good faith even as the case now moves to the courts.
According to remulla, law enforcement agencies are working in sync in the flood control investigations. (With reports from Mark Ernest Villeza)
Indonesia, PH to bid jointly for Olympics?
by Joaquin m. HEnson Philstar.com
mANiLA — it was a landmark meeting of the minds between Psc chairman Patrick Gregorio and indonesian minister of Youth and sports erick thohir during the seA Games in Bangkok the other day as they discussed a dream plan of bringing the olympics to southeast Asia.
Gregorio said the bid for the 2036 olympics is still open and thohir will raise the possibility when indonesia hosts a sports ministers meeting in Bali on feb. 6-8. the plan is for a joint hosting of indonesia and the Philippines, similar to the three-way arrangement with Japan for the 2023 fiBA World cup. the next olympics will be in Los Angeles in 2028 then the Games will be held in Brisbane in 2032. the
only Asian countries to host the summer olympics were Japan in 1964 and 2020, south Korea in 1988 and china in 2008. “Can Southeast Asia host the Olympics?” said Gregorio. “Yes, of course, we can. It’s about time. Over 700 million population. Five Olympic rings for the five original ASEAN members – Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines. We’re discussing the possibility of a joint SEA region hosting which will be more exciting.” Gregorio described the plan as aspirational. “I’ve mentioned this idea to President Marcos and informally to POC President Bambol (Tolentino),” he added. “It’s all in the brainstorming phase yet. As sports ministers, we need the ‘go-ahead’ of both our Presidents. This is a plan we can pursue when the Philippines hosts the ASEAN
Summit in 2026. Gregorio said he broached the idea to fiVB chairman michael Payne when manila hosted the men’s Volleyball World championships last september. “Michael’s the guru of the new-age Olympic marketing thrust and his reaction was it’s a great narrative,” said Gregorio. “That bidding is already a major achievement and winning is another.
Gregorio disclosed that he also talked to thohir about organizing an AseAN marathon circuit. “Erick’s a big dreamer and he loves the Philippines,” he said. “His first love is basketball. We’ve been brothers since 20 years ago. Bangkok was our second meeting the past two months. We met in Indonesia last month during the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships and at his daughter’s wedding.” n
mANiLA — Denmark is looking to open caregiving jobs to about 100 filipinos per year to fill the gap in its workforce in the elderly care sector.
Danish minister of senior citizens mette Kierkgaard and Department of migrant Workers (DmW) secretary hans Leo cacdac signed a memorandum of agreement (moA) on thursday for this government-to-government initiative that is set to start by next year, with the training and education program of healthcare professionals to be tapped by the Danish government.
Kierkgaard, who is visiting the Philippines this week, noted that filipino workers would not be discriminated against in the workplace as their salaries and benefits would be the same as their Danish counterparts. Filipinos will be employed under the same conditions as their Danish colleagues. You know, working hours, wages and so on. It has been very, very important to have the commitment of the labor union,” she said in a press conference at the Danish ambassador’s residence in makati city.
But the filipino caregivers’ actual deployment on the job could start sometime in 2027 as they would have to first undergo a “receiving program,” including learning the formal Danish language, to help them easily adapt to their new environment. for his part, cacdac said that safeguards are in place to ensure that illegal recruiters will not prey on applicants. for one, the recruiter, the employer, and the worker should be accredited and documented by the DmW to prevent filipinos from falling victim to unneces-
sary fees, or worse, to human trafficking and illegal migration. Denmark is facing a shortage of its workers for elderly care, with this sector needing about 24,000 more workers in the next 10 years, noted Kierkgaard, citing estimates. We have more people going from part-time to full-time… But I think we have to employ all remedies, and that’s why I’m so happy about this recruitment from the Philippines, because we simply need them very much, because care is at the core of our welfare system,” she explained. n
by Gillian VillanuEVa Inquirer.net
mANiLA — the metropolitan manila Development Authority (mmDA) admitted that “it’s about time to decongest metro manila” in order to permanently solve the heavy traffic situation, as there are already too many vehicles plying the roads in the capital region.
mmDA chair romando Artes made the statement during a press conference on thursday when asked to offer a permanent solution to the heavy traffic that is only expected to become worse this holiday season.
The volume of our vehicles is too much. Imagine, our average last year was 3.6 million vehicles a day. This is a substantial increase because in the previous two years, it was only 3.2 million,” Artes pointed out.
“So, there was really a huge jump, maybe because cars are also becoming more affordable.
It’s now easier to buy one compared to before. It’s easier to take a loan and place a down payment,” he said.
According to Artes, nearby provinces should be further developed, with the offices of certain industries in metro manila moved to other areas, in order to reduce the volume of vehicles.
Like with the airports, if the one in Bulacan is finished, that will of course reduce [the traffic.]
Because, if the major airlines are just in Metro Manila aside from Clark, imagine, all the international flights will land here,” he said.
“Even those from north and south, those from Region 4, even those from Bicol will land here, and they will commute, be ferried. So, that’s an additional volume of vehicles,” he added. on top of this, Artes also acknowledged that road infrastructure and public transportation in metro manila need to be improved in order to encour-
age more people to commute, which would then reduce the amount of private cars on thoroughfares.
As part of efforts to improve infrastructure in metro manila, the mmDA chief said he had previously discussed with Antipolo city mayor casimiro “Jun” Ynares iii the construction of an underpass in the intersection of sumulong and marcos highways to alleviate traffic congestion for now, the mmDA has implemented several “immediate” interventions to address traffic along marcos highway, including the installation of additional traffic signages, deployment of additional personnel, and relocation and reconfiguration of certain U-turn slots. the agency has also requested local government units to ask the malls in their respective areas to refrain from conducting mallwide sales during peak hours in order to prevent a spike in vehicle volume. n
by JEan mangaluz Philstar.com
mANiLA — President ferdinand marcos Jr. on friday, December 12, said that the government hoped to have the san Juanico Bridge fully functional by 2026.
the major bridge, which connects Leyte and samar, has been undergoing maintenance repairs after structural concerns were raised. While the bridge is not completely closed, only light vehicles have been allowed to pass. the president inspected the bridge, which has partially reopened to two-way traffic.
“But I'm very happy that I'm able to say now, it is very close to our deadline. And so, the San Juanico Bridge is partially, partially finished. It will be finished next year,” marcos said. the bridge is now open two-
way with a 15-ton load limit—less than half of the 33-ton limit both ways.
marcos lamented that the bridge had been neglected for so long, saying that if the bridge had been properly maintained, retrofitting would not have been needed. I hope that this serves as a lesson to all future administrators in government, of all government workers who have anything to do with this. The retrofit costs us P1.1
billion. That is money that we could have saved if proper maintenance was carried out on San Juanico,” marcos said. if the proper maintenance and inspection had been done every three years, the government could have saved that money, he said. marcos acknowledged that the commerce in the region was also impacted, with the flow of food supplies, raw materials and other goods being disrupted. n
mANiLA — As the country marked international human rights Day yesterday, rights groups said the pattern of abuse extends well beyond the Duterte administration and continues under President marcos.
Watchdog Karapatan accused the current administration of failing to curb extrajudicial killings and attacks on activists.
since marcos took office in July 2022, the network said 134 people have been killed and 15 forcibly disappeared, with state forces allegedly involved in many of the cases. International humanitarian law, which is supposed to protect civilians during armed conflict, has been consistently violated by the Marcos Jr. regime as the vast majority of EJK victims are leaders or members of peasant organizations who are falsely portrayed by the military as rebels killed in armed encounters,” Karapatan secretary general cristina Palabay said.
Beyond killings, the watchdog tallied 822 arbitrary arrests, 577 forced or fake surrenders and tens of thousands affected by indiscriminate firing and aerial bombings. the group said about 48,200 people have been displaced by threats and military operations,
while 696 political prisoners were documented nationwide, including 163 detained under the marcos administration and 12 consultants and staff of the National Democratic front.
Aside from these, Karapatan also criticized the expanded use of the Anti-terrorism Act and related programs such as the National Action Plan for Unity, Peace and Development and the Ntf-eLcAc saying these have enabled profiling, red-tagging and “trumped-up charges” against activists.
According to Palabay, state forces have also “weaponized” anti-terrorism laws to clamp down on dissent, noting the arrest of 227 mass leaders and activists.
Recycled firearms meanwhile, in a privilege speech tuesday, Akbayan rep. chel Diokno condemned what he called the “recycling” of firearms allegedly used to justify killings during the Duterte administration’s six-year war on drugs.
Diokno revealed that a single colt .45 pistol with serial number 936185 was reported as “recovered” three times in Quezon city –on sept. 22, 2016 in Barangay san Bartolome; sept. 23, 2016 in Barangay talipapa and Nov. 30, 2016 in Barangay Nagkaisang Nayon. seven other firearms bore identical serial numbers but were listed with varying descriptions of make, model or caliber, supposedly
seized in separate police operations involving different suspects, he added.
“It is incumbent on the Philippine National Police to prove that these are different firearms. If they are the same, this means that at least 14 firearms were recycled by the QC Police from 2016 to 2018,” he said. these findings, Diokno said, directly undermine the “self-defense” narrative long advanced by police officers under former president rodrigo Duterte and thenPNP chief ronald dela rosa. Based on the office of the President’s 2017 year-end report to the high court, 20,322 people were killed in the first 17 months of the drug war. in several incidents, the same firearms – bearing matching serial numbers – appeared as recovered evidence in different police operations on various dates and in multiple locations, raising concerns about systematic evidence-planting. in Quezon city alone, the firearms that appeared to have been reused included several .45-caliber pistols of varying brands and serial numbers: a colt (serial 361852), remington (047936), remington (793618), colt (9111243), colt (479361) and a springfield Armory (195859). Diokno urged congress to probe those involved and compensate the families of victims. n
by Delon Porcalla Philstar.com
by Kathleen De Villa Inquirer.net
DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac and Danish minister Mette Kierkgaard forge an agreement for a new program for the recruitment and training of Filipino caregivers in Denmark. Inquirer.net photo by Kathleen de Villa
San Juanico Bridge
Philstar.com file photo
COSTLY INGREDIENT. Local red onions sell for PHP150 per kg. at a stall in Divisoria, Manila on Thursday (Dec. 11, 2025). According to the Department of Agriculture, the maximum suggested retail price per kilogram of red onions will be increased from PHP120 to PHP150 due to rising supplier costs. PNA photo by Yancy Lim
BAlAGtAs
JOY is the overarching theme of the Third Sunday of Advent. This is why the third candle on the Advent wreath is pink (rose)—it represents the shepherds’ joy and the nearness of Christ’s birth. As Christians, our joy fundamentally stems from our profound faith in Jesus, who lifts us from loneliness, suffering, hopelessness, and death.
As this Sunday’s readings tell us, He “gives sight to the blind; raises up those who were bowed down; loves the just; protects strangers.”
In Him, “the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.”
Our Second Reading from the Letter of James urges us to be patient in our struggles and firm in our faith. Though feelings of desolation are a part of our lives, keeping our faith in Jesus guarantees us times of consolation and joy. Thus, we must indeed be patient and hopeful.
As Christians, we must also remember that joy comes not only from having material possessions, successful careers, recognition, and titles, but also from being kind and generous, serving others, and
AS far as health is concerned, the majority, if not all, of us want the best health minus the sacrifices needed to achieve it effectively and safely. We want to be healthy without exercising, dieting, or abstaining from smoking and without disciplined alcohol intake. We want to have good blood pressure and good cholesterol levels without skimping on our salt and fat intake and quitting cigarettes. We want to lose weight without cutting down on our calorie intake and exercising daily. Everybody wants to get to heaven without dying!
For expediency, any pill or juice or gadget that comes along with the claim that it is good for our health becomes a “must-buy” crutch, believing it will confer upon us good health and longevity, without lifting a finger, moving a muscle, or getting off the couch and putting down the remote control and the potato chips. Unfortunately, the manufacturers of these “health” lotions, potions, pills, juices, and gadgets are mostly interested in making their bank accounts healthy, and least interested in the health of their consumer-victims. Otherwise, they won’t continue to prey on the unsuspecting public and sell their useless products, which may even have severe long-term side effects. And organ failure and cancer are some of those possibilities!
It is one thing to pay for a costly pill or juice, or a machine, and find out years from now that it was not effective. It is another to discover years down the line that its use has caused a debilitating or deadly disease. Now comes the water ionizer, the “ionized” alkaline water it produces, the “special drinking water.” Not only are these marketed waters and the ionizing machines expensive, but they are, according to scientists, “medically baseless and worthless.” Most of the good effects these manufacturers claim for their products are available in healthy food items, like fish, fruits, bran, wheat, nuts, vegetables, and water purified by the most advanced multiple-stage reverse-osmosis filtration system. It might come as a surprise to many, but boiled water, minus its sediments,
The Gift of Joy
connecting meaningfully with our loved ones, friends, and community. It arises from deep friendships and true companionships. Furthermore, joy springs from nurturing creativity, learning new things, encountering new friends, and surrendering peacefully to our present stage of life.
On this Third Sunday of Advent, let us listen to our hearts and see if we are truly experiencing joy. Where does it come from? If we are not experiencing joy, what will it take to attain it? We cannot merely sit around and expect it to happen to us. As the Letter of James tells us, faith without works is dead.
Therefore, this Advent, consider doing something good for others and for yourself, focusing on your well-being and spiritual growth. Commit to these actions as a family as well. Here are examples I found on Google: Acts of Kindness
Serve the Lonely: Visit residents in nursing homes or guests at shelters.
Help Neighbors: Offer assistance to elderly neighbors with groceries or yard work.
Acts of Mercy: Perform daily acts like feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, or offering a kind word.
Random Acts: Call a distant friend, write handwritten notes, or
babysit for someone.
Prayer & Spiritual Growth
Daily Readings: Read the daily Scripture readings for Advent.
Confession: Make a special effort to go to Confession.
Silence: Practice moments of silence to quiet the noise of the world.
Sacrifice: Give up something neutral or good (like complaining) to focus more on God.
Family & Home Activities
Bake Together: Make Christmas cookies or treats for others.
Build a Manger: Create a nativity scene as a family project.
Thank You Notes: Write notes of gratitude to family members.
Focus on Meaning
Homemade Gifts: Create thoughtful gifts such as jam or cookies instead of purchasing expensive items.
Read Stories: Share children’s books that convey the true meaning of Christmas to teach valuable lessons and foster understanding.
Have a joyful Advent! Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas
* * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.
The “Ionizer” scam
is safer than some of this expensive drinking water. Using the commercially available home water filtration pitcher or the below-the-sink multiple-stage reversed osmosis filtration system, and then boiling the water, will even double the protection. This will certainly not cost $1500-$2500 like the ionizers.
When it comes to health, there is no better guide than our modern science, where extensive and rigidly controlled laboratory testing and double-blind, randomized, human clinical trials are the standard before any medication or device gets official approval and goes out to the market.
Anecdotal reports (usually solicited) or testimonials (usually from paid endorsers) are not scientific proofs. This is misinformation used to market the product with some semblance of “truth.” Candidly, these are nothing but deception to sell. If not approved by the US-FDA, RP-BFAD, or any other similar national health agencies, any product is a potential suspect.
So, public, beware!
As far as the water ionizer is concerned, here is “the bottom line” as objectively explained in a detailed scientific paper, which aims to educate and protect the public: Here, in a nutshell, are few basic facts that anyone with a solid background in chemistry or physiology would concur with:
(1) “Ionized water” is nothing more than sales fiction; the term is meaningless to chemists; (2) Most water that is fit for drinking is too non-conductive to undergo significant electrolysis; (3) Pure water can never be alkaline or acidic, nor can it be made so by electrolysis; (4) Ground waters containing metal ions such as calcium and magnesium can be rendered slightly alkaline by electrolysis, but after it hits the highly acidic gastric fluid in the stomach, its alkalinity is gone; (5) The idea that one must consume alkaline water to neutralize the effects of acidic foods is ridiculous; we get rid of excess acid by exhaling carbon dioxide; (6) The claims about health benefits of drinking alkaline water were not supported by credible scientific evidence; (7) There is nothing wrong with drinking slightly acidic waters such as rainwater. Body pH is a meaningless concept in this context because different parts of the body (and even individual cells) can have widely different pH value;
(8) If you really want to de-acidify your stomach (at possible cost of interfering with protein digestion), why spend hundreds of dollars for an electrolysis device when you can take calcium-magnesium pills, Alka-Seltzers or Milk of Magnesia, under your doctor’s care? (9) Electrolysis devices or ionizers are generally worthless for treating water for health enhancement, removal of common impurities, disinfection, and scale control.”
Talking about liquids, here is a warning: Soft drinks (cola or un-cola, diet or regular), for instance, are poison to all of us, especially to children; they cause metabolic syndrome, which leads to major chronic illnesses. They are killing us softly! Among “killer foods,” processed foods, especially meats (almost all deli), increase the risk for cancer; and sweets and sugars are most unhealthy for us, responsible for most major chronic illnesses among us. To protect our health…and pocketbook, we must use our wisdom and due diligence. Caveat emptor!
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
*
* * The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
* * * Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, David Letterman, distinguished educators, scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today. SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com. On Amazon. com, search for “Where is My America?” Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.
What is the difference between an annulment and a divorce?
Barrister’s Corner
IF the divorcing parties are both reasonable in their expectations in resolving their family law case and if they don’t think involving lawyers in their divorce case early on would be an efficient and cost effective way of going about their divorce process, then perhaps mediation is the way to go. It can be a more cost effective option to resolve your family law issues. There may be situations where involving the wrong type of lawyers in either side of the case can turn your family law case into a circus and end up costing the parties unnecessary legal fees x2 (legal fees for each party). Remember, legal fees from both parties can rapidly escalate in litigation and those fees will be coming out of the same pie. If both you and your spouse are open to a fair and amicable settlement in your family law case and both of you are not interested in playing games or weaponizing the judicial process against the other spouse, then both of you can benefit from trying mediation first before pursuing litigation. This can result to a less stressful process and preserve the size of the pie that both of you are trying to divide in your divorce case. By hiring an experienced mediator in your case, the mediator will serve as a “neutral” in your case. A mediator with many years of family law trial experience to draw upon to advise you on a myriad of possible solutions to your family law issues that is fair to both parties under the California Family Code and case law can increase the chances of settling your case substantially and in cost effective manner with less stress. Further, both parties can share in the cost of the mediation services instead of
each party paying for their own attorney to fight it out in court. If you have young children, taking a scorch earth position in litigation might not be a good idea.
Remember, you will continue to co-parent your children even after the divorce case is over.
Through mediation, you might be able to avoid burning bridges with your ex spouse. As part of the mediation services, mediators can also assist both parties in drafting the pleadings necessary to successfully complete the case.
This may include filing the divorce petition, preparing the required financial disclosures, and drafting the settlement agreement and stipulated judgment should the parties successfully settle the case.
Of course, there is no guarantee that you will be able to come to an agreement but chances are higher is done through an experienced mediator. The good thing about family law is that each issue in a family law case is “divisible.” This means it is not an all or nothing predicament like in civil cases. You do not have to settle all the issues.
You can settle some of the issues that you are able to agree upon and litigation the other issues you have an impasse on in court at a later time. For those issues you cannot settle in mediation, you will still have a chance to litigate them in court at a later time and hire lawyers to represent you.
Both parties can also utilize experts as part of the mediation process. For example if you own a business and need the business to be appraised, the parties may jointly retain an expert for purposes of appraising the business during the mediation process in order to arrive at a fair and equitable division of community property. If you own a property prior to marriage but there was a mortgage on the property which was paid using community income during the marriage, you may have to involve an forensic accounting expert to calculate and apportion the community interest in the property during the mediation process.
In addition, most statements during mediation are privileged and confidential. The only statement or writing made in connection with mediation which can be disclosed without the express consent of both parties is the settlement agreement reached during the mediation. Except for limited exceptions created by the courts, nothing else said or written during or in the course of the mediation, or for the purpose of the mediation, can be received in evidence, compelled in
or compelled as testimony in any proceeding. California Evidence Code Section 1119, 1121, and 1123.
Of
Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS
Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes
LOS ANGELES
Queso de bola: The symbol of a Filipino Christmas
Making the flavor of the holidays last longer
by Juana M. Yupangco Inquirer.net
WRAPPED in bright red wax and shaped into a perfect sphere, queso de bola is more than just cheese. It is a symbol of celebration, heritage, and anticipation. For many Filipino families, Christmas does not feel complete without it.
Unlike everyday cheeses used in sandwiches or cooking, queso de bola appears almost exclusively during Christmas and New Year’s. This limited presence gives it a powerful emotional association. Children grow up recognizing that once the red wax ball appears in the refrigerator, Christmas has truly arrived.
In my mom’s house, where we celebrate Noche Buena, the table is not complete without a little queso de bola, even if not that many people actually eat it. Ask many Filipinos what would make Christmas feel “incomplete,” and queso de bola will be mentioned alongside ham, bibingka, and parol lanterns. It has earned its place not because it is extravagant, but because it has become emotionally essential.
Part of a deeply rooted tradition Queso de bola comes from the Spanish Edam cheese, originally produced in the Netherlands and later introduced to the Philippines during Spain’s 300-plus years of colonial rule. The name itself reflects this history: Queso means cheese in Spanish, and bola means ball, referring to its iconic round shape. Edam was prized for its long shelf life and durability—traits that made it perfect for long sea voyages during the age of exploration and colonial trade.
When it reached the Philippines, it eventually became associated with special occasions due to its rarity and cost, and over time, it transformed from
an imported luxury into a deeply rooted Christmas tradition. Today, queso de bola is commonly produced locally as well, but it still retains its festive status. Its distinct salty, creamy flavor cuts through the sweetness of many Filipino holiday dishes, making it a perfect counterbalance at the Christmas table. Meant for sharing Queso de bola is a cheese meant to be shared. Rarely eaten alone, it is sliced, cubed, melted, and folded into dishes that bring the family together. Its round shape itself symbolizes completeness, unity, and abundance—fitting themes for the season. In many homes, queso de bola is not opened immediately. It may even sit under the Christmas tree or on the dining counter for days, building anticipation until Noche Buena.
For generations, queso de bola also symbolized aspiration. In earlier decades, when imported goods were expensive and access was limited, having queso de bola on the table was a sign that Christmas was truly special. For many parents, being able to provide it for their children be-
de bola
came a quiet marker of success and stability.
Even today, when queso de bola is more accessible, it still carries that emotional weight. It represents a reward after a long year, a taste that signals celebration.
Modern Filipino Christmas celebrations continue to evolve, but queso de bola remains constant. While younger generations experiment with new ways of serving it—queso-stuffed pastries, gourmet cheese boards, or melted queso sauces for parties—the core symbolism remains unchanged.
In a country that values food as an expression of love and community, queso de bola represents how something once foreign can become fully Filipino—not just through taste, but through shared memory.
More than just cheese
In the end, queso de bola is more than a holiday ingredient. It is a symbol of how tradition survives quietly, year after year, in refrigerators, in midnight tables, and in the hands of families slicing it open together. It reminds Filipinos that Christmas is not just about gifts or decorations, but about continuity, gratitude, and shared joy.
As long as Filipino families continue to gather for Noche Buena, as long as children wait for the midnight feast, and as long as the red wax ball appears each December, queso de bola will remain at the heart of every Philippine Christmas.
At the end of the holidays, we are left with remnants of these celebrations—a bit of lechon, some slices of ham, and that odd wedge of queso de bola. But once the New Year is over, the festivities die down, and life goes back to normal, I hope that with this queso de bola dip recipe, you can not only recycle food but also extend the flavor of the holidays a little longer.
Claudine Barretto denounces revived tale involving sister Gretchen
Claudine Barretto and Vivian Yuchengco shut down long-running RCBC elevator rumor involving Gretchen Barretto
by AJPress
has condemned the renewed circulation of a decadesold rumor involving her sister
and banker Vivian
She called the story false and urged the public to stop repeating it. The rumor, widely known online as the elevator incident, claims that a confrontation took place more than twenty years ago inside the RCBC Building in Makati. The tale has circulated in different forms for years even though no official record, sworn statement, or verified account has ever confirmed that such an incident happened. Vivian Yuchengco has now addressed the matter directly. She has finally shut down the long-standing rumor, calling it fake news and rejecting how the story portrayed her. She said she was never the “old lady” people imagined in the circulating versions. The tale, which has been repeated for about twenty years and often framed as a confrontation sparked by Gretchen, has persisted without evidence. Yuchengco stated that the entire account was made up and contributed nothing but confusion and unnecessary speculation. Claudine also issued a clear denial. She defended her sister and criticized the spread of a narrative that she considers unfair and harmful. She reminded the public that circulating unverified claims can damage individuals who have consistently rejected the alleged events.
Together, the statements from Claudine and Yuchengco represent the strongest effort to correct the public
mistaken for fact simply because they are familiar. The absence of documentation, combined with clear denials from those involved, underscores the gap between celebrity folklore and verifiable truth.
Ruby Rodriguez calls out ‘malicious’ fake post, explores legal options
Ruby Rodriguez rejects a fabricated post linking her to Tito Sotto and issues an exclusive statement to Asian Journal defending her family and condemning the misuse of her child’s photo
by AJPress
LOS ANGELES / MANILA — Actress and former Eat Bulaga host Ruby Rodriguez is considering legal action after a fabricated social media post falsely linked her to Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. The claim alleged that she had a child with Sotto and circulated on Facebook using a layout designed to resemble a legitimate news report.
The false graphic was created by an account using the name “Pinas Star.” It spread across several Facebook pages before Rodriguez publicly rejected the allegation and described the post as malicious and harmful to her family.
In a statement provided exclusively to Asian Journal, Rodriguez addressed the fabrication and the photo used in the circulating post.
My child in the photo being used is a special child and the reason my family and I migrated was to pursue better education and medical treatment for his rare autoimmune disease. Please do not fabricate stories at the expense of my child. Rumors have been spreading on Facebook linking me to what Anjo Yllana claimed. I brushed it aside and laughed it off. But using my child for fabricated news is below the belt. It saddens me that some kababayans believe those fake, false and unverified posts. I never spoke to any reporter.” Rodriguez said the incident has caused distress within her family and placed her child, who is a private individual, at the center of an invented narrative. She confirmed that she has begun consulting legal counsel to determine possible action under Philippine laws on cyber libel and falsified online content.
Public reactions have been largely supportive, with many social media users condemning the rumor as reckless and urging others not to share posts that imitate news formats to spread unverified claims.
There has been no indication that Sotto was involved in the rumor or commented on the circulating material. No evidence has been presented to support the allegation.
Rodriguez is now based in Los Angeles, where she works at the Philippine Consulate General while continuing occasional entertainment work. She reminds the public to remain vigilant about false content online and to avoid amplifying posts that cause harm to families and public officials.
AJPress illustration by Kendrick Tan
Queso
dip Inquirer.net photo by Mikey Yabut
Claudine Barretto
Photo from Facebook/@ claudinebarretto45
MANILA – Actress Claudine Barretto
Gretchen Barretto
Yuchengco.
Ruby Rodriguez at a recent community event in Los Angeles.
Photo from Ruby Rodriguez–Aquino social media account
KC Concepcion ready to share life with Mr. Right
by BoY aBunda Philstar.com
KC Concepcion affirmed that she intentionally took a break from show business, but she never planned for it to last for seven years.
The daughter of Megastar Sharon Cuneta and Gabby Concepcion said that losing her beloved grandmother, Elaine Cuneta, profoundly affected her, causing her to quietly step back and focus on herself — both physically and mentally.
“It was a long time, but 2020 (the start of the global pandemic) was included in that. So, I never thought it would last another three years,” KC said during our conversation on “The Talk” segment of “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda.”
“I’ve read a book, Secrets of the Millionaire Mind. And it says there, ‘Your thoughts turn into feelings, and your feelings turn into actions, and your actions turn into results,’” added she.
“So, if your thoughts become negative, they will also turn your feelings negative, and the same goes for what happens to your actions and the results of your choices in life.”
She continued, “And there was a time na parang wala na akong ligayang nakukuha. Kasi parang siguro nung time na ‘yun nawala din ‘yung lola ko, si Mita Elaine (who passed away in 2014). And then, nag-cope talaga ‘yung buong family.”
KC recalled how her grandmother would support her whenever she had a show by consistently being the first to arrive and the last to leave the studio or auditorium.
“Ang next ko po noon na hosting was Binibining Pilipinas. It was the year after Pia Wurtzbach won. I was so affected when I saw the audience, and there was no Mita Elaine there anymore.
Doon kasi siya unang-unang pinaka-excited manood lalo kapag mga beauty contest at ako po ‘yung host.”
KC admitted she felt physically weaker. She was no longer feeling the same passion for her work. “And I learned that you can feel that way when you are sad. So, I decided to take a rest because of that.”
While on a temporary break, KC spent most of her time reading books and learning about business management. Her relationship with her mom has also improved, and she described
it as “so okay now.” It’s well known that mother and daughter once had a rough patch. She said they made up when Sharon showed up at her house on Christmas Day, and they talked for five hours.
“It’s normal (to go through tough times), but now we’re doing so much better. We talk like best friends. I can now say to her, ‘Ma, I need girl talk. Call me.’”
KC always keeps in mind the lesson her mom taught her about love.
“May mga dumating sa buhay ko na talagang sabi niya sa akin, ‘Anak, when in doubt, don’t.’ So, sabi ko, ‘Bakit may na-fe-feel ka ba?’ And she said, ‘Basta, kung meron kang doubt, kung nag-da-dalawang isip ka, ‘wag na.’”
Her dad, Gabby, on the other hand, advised her to have a small, intimate wedding whenever she feels ready to settle down.
Is KC ready to get married?
“Yes na yes with Mr. Right,” replied KC without disclosing if she is currently in a romantic relationship. She added, “I am ready to share my life with someone. I think I’ve enjoyed my life so much, I want to share it with someone deserving.”
Her statement motivated her to share her discoveries about
herself, including how she loves and wants to be loved.
“With every relationship I’ve had, I truly learned how to trust and love. I discovered my weaknesses, what’s missing, what needs work, and my past fears. When you’re scared, you put up your defenses and build a wall. And I think I was like that before.”
Now, KC is more open, and she feels more feminine because, according to her, “Mas nagiging soft ako habang i-na-accept ko ‘yung pagkukulang ko, parang ay, p’wede na akong maging babae ulit. I now know my role in a man’s life.”
She prefers to see her man as the provider, unlike others who want to be equal with their partners.
Alam ko po ‘yung kaya kong i-contribute, pero masarap din po ‘yung feeling na babae na (she proceeded to act sweet and cute) ganon ka lang.”
KC described her ideal man as someone she already knows, caring, a provider and very masculine, who will make her feel truly feminine.
Has KC found her Mr. Right?
“I think he’s just there. The one I will end up with, the one I will marry, is simply waiting there for me,” replied KC, and she promised to reveal to the public once she found her Mr. Right.
Why Dolly de Leon couldn’t say no to ‘The Heidi Fleiss Story’
by nathalie toMada Philstar.com
DOLLY de Leon found time to
come home briefly after wrapping up two international projects. I just finished ‘Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed,’ which is a series on Apple TV, and ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ on Netflix,” she confirmed in an exclusive chat with The STAR. “Maybe by May next year, it will come out. I also have a movie, ‘The Chaperones,’ next December.
As per US entertainment news outlet Variety, American filmmaker India Donaldson is directing “The Chaperones,” which is her sophomore feature after the 2024 drama “Good One.” According to its synopsis, the film is set days after Christmas and follows three slacker friends hired to transport a troubled teen across the country. The film is produced by Robert Pattinson’s Icki Eneo Arlo and Brad Pitt’s Plan B. Dolly will star alongside Paul Dano (“12 Years a Slave,” “The Batman”) in the movie.
Dolly also scored another Hollywood movie, taking on the role of a madam in the biopic, “The Heidi Fleiss Story.”
According to Deadline, the story revisits Fleiss’ rise in the ‘90s as the operator of a high-profile prostitution ring that catered to Los Angeles’ wealthy and powerful, including Hollywood bigwigs. In 1993, she was arrested and later sentenced to prison.
Based on the reported synopsis,
the film follows Fleiss in the days leading up to her trial, trying to employ her web of connections to manipulate and blackmail her way out of the charges. Aubrey Plaza (“Parks and Recreation,” “The White Lotus”) not only stars as the titular role, she also serves as co-producer. The dark comedy marks the directorial debut of Leah Rachel, creator of the Netflix series “Chambers.”
We’re shooting that in February, ‘The Heidi Fleiss Story.’ I play a Filipina madam who was the boss of Heidi Fleiss. It was an immediate yes, are you kidding me? To play the first madam in Los Angeles, in Hollywood, who was Filipino… of course it was yes,” Dolly said. The former Golden Globe nominee has already started researching about her character, named Madam Alex. “Bale 17 years old siya nag-migrate to the US, worked in a flower shop, and met a madam — customer sa flower shop at a five-star hotel — na binigay sa kanya yung phonebook niya (who gave her a phonebook), where all her clients were listed.
“(Madam Alex) took over the business and handled a high-class prostitution ring in Los Angeles. Then naging employee niya si Heidi Fleiss, who went on to become the most famous madam.
“Parang astig na Pinay ang nakapag-start ng ganitong operation sa L.A. I’m the only Filipina in the cast, and I’m excited because it’s Aubrey Plaza who is playing Heidi Fleiss.”
Meanwhile, Dolly is expected to be busy as in the coming awards season as a voting member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences — the body that votes for the Oscars, considered as Hollywood’s biggest night.
The Philippines has fielded Lav Diaz’s period film “Magellan” as an entry to the Best International Feature Film category.
I have high hopes,” Dolly expressed. “I mean, sana pumasok. Sana! Nakaka-proud na meron tayong ganun na film. Di ko pa napanood — so siyempre wala pa talaga akong opinion (about the film). I wasn’t here when it came out. But sana, sana! I mean, it’s Lav Diaz. It’s about time that we have a film at the Oscars.”
Tom Rodriguez reveals he’s married, wishes Carla Abellana well on her engagement
TOM Rodriguez shared that he has remarried, following his earlier announcement of welcoming a baby boy earlier in the year. During a press conference for his upcoming film UnMarry, the actor was asked about his reaction to his ex-wife Carla Abellana's engagement announcement. I wish her well, I wish them well. I'm glad to know everyone is moving on. We all deserve it," he told reporters. Everyone deserves happiness
Looking Forward to FIFA World Cup 2026
I was grateful to the Washington DC Foreign Press Center for the FIFA World Cup 2026 media briefing led by Andrew Harold Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026. FIFA stands for Fédération Internationale de Football Association, which is the French name for the International Federation of Association Football. It is the international governing body for the sport of football (soccer) and is responsible for organizing events like the FIFA World Cup.
There were many credentialed media members of the Foreign Press Center who attended onsite and online thru Zoom, including me. Online, I saw those 71 press members from La Croix-France, Hungarian Publication, Catalunya Radio, Aljazeera Media, TV 2 Norway, Xinhua News Agency, Asahi Shimbun (where I was a stringer), Fuji TV Japan, NHK Broadcasting Japan, Kyodo News, Mainichi newspaper, Jiji Press, TASS, German Presse Agency dpa, YTN South Korea, La Republica Italy, The Shaka Speer covering Africa, La Politica Online from Argentina, and a lot more.
I realized I was the only Filipino journalist who was participating. I did not see a representative from The Japan Times newspaper in Tokyo where I was a correspondent and columnist when I was based in Tokyo as a journalist.
Thanks to Gim Staab, Bryce and Zina Wolfington, all from the Foreign Center, for the assistance.
More on FIFA World Cup
The White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026 is dedicated to leading and coordinating federal efforts in support of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and the FIFA World Cup 2026.
In collaboration with executive departments and agencies, the Task Force will facilitate comprehensive planning, organization, and execution of the largest sporting events in the history of mankind.
Through interagency cooperation, information sharing, and strategic support, the Task
Force aims to ensure the successful hosting of world-class international events that reflect the values, security, and hospitality of the United States of America.
Pres. Trump Receives the 1st FIFA Peace Prize
FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald J. Trump the inaugural 2025 FIFA Peace Prize.
The said Peace Prize is dedicated to an individual who achieved exceptional and extraordinary action to promote peace and unity around the world. John Rey Malto’s Birthday Talent manager John Rey Malto expressed his gratitude after a recent memorable birthday celebration with showbiz stars, directors, entertainment production and media personalities.
Among the attendees were singer Joice Espinoza, Hasna Cabral (former Pinoy Big Brother housemate from ABS-CBN), Sarkis Obeid, Vivamax artist Denise Esteban, beauty queen Jefahlyne “Jaja” Del Rosario, social media star Jiniah “Arya” Manalang, Albert Langitan (director of the TV series Totoy Bato), Cinepop director Benedict Salgado, independent film directors Aldwin Bonggao, Vic Tiro, Mark Jason Sucgang and Bon Labora, Viva directors Johnrey Ramos and Marvin Medina, award-winning international film
director Arvin Belarmino, and talent manager Paula Qui. Also in attendance were the Solaire Girls composed of Samantha Gracioso, Rose Ann Laquindanum, Abigail Reyes, Abigail Manahan, April Rose Geres, Dianna Marie Agbu, Cristina Tan, Rishma Luba, Francine Comadizo, Marissa Galima, Maria Ederlyn
“Aya” Escoreal, Ailene De Jorge, Francesca Jamella Ramirez, Aurielle Mary Joy Tagura, Arlene Jade Eliseo, Sigrid Rafael, Ira Dizon, Angelica Redito and Marjorie Ebio Cagro, and Viva Entertainment director
Kristian Paolo Selga with Viva associate producer Catherine Dela Cruz.
The event turned into a joyful gathering of creative and passionate individuals who continue to make meaningful contributions to the Philippine entertainment industry.
Katrina Ponce-Enrile’s Corgi LUKE Congratulations to LUKE who finished the year as the #1 Pembroke Welsh Corgi in the Philippines.
This achievement meant more than just a ranking for it represented “our passion, our dedication, and our love for the breed. This also reflects the heart and soul of everyone who supported Team LUKE.” Wency Vilanueva, the trainor of
the pet, began showing Luke in the Philippines only nine months ago, but “it feels like we’ve shared a lifetime already. From the very first time I held the end of his lead, I felt that instant bond, that unspoken understanding. Our hearts connected right away. And from that moment on, I knew we were meant to chase dreams side by side in the show ring. I bring him all around the country, some part in Asia and also in the amazing America. We’ve built so many unforgettable memories along the way, and every single one of them will stay in my heart.”
Wency attributed this success to “Ms. Katrina C. Ponce-Enrile, who has been our guide, our #1 supporter, and the visionary behind this journey. I remember the day we first talked about this dream, and now, look where we are.”
Added Wency, “She’s an extraordinary owner, like myself. She also always believes in her dog! We share the same passion, the same love for the breed, and the same unwavering heart. I am truly thankful for her trust, her encouragement, and the love she
and we all deserve to move on and I'm glad we're all moving on." Tom also shared that he wants to focus on his own life. Earlier in March, he revealed that he was seeing someone, but kept the identity of his partner to himself. Later on, he and his partner welcomed a baby boy named Korben.
On the other hand, Carla posted a photo hinting that she may be engaged to her non-showbiz boyfriend on Dec. 1. The picture showed her hand holding her boyfriend's, with a ring visible on her finger.
"That's their life. Ako nakatutok ako sa sarili ko, sa sarili kong married life lang. Dun lang ako nakatutok," Tom said to the media.
For me, I like what I have now and I'd like to keep it that way... Gusto ko 'yung peace na meron ako ngayon... So 'yung past, I don't want to open it ever."
Tom and Carla were married in 2021 after a seven-year relationship. Tom, an American citizen, announced their separation in June 2022 without getting into much detail about their split.
The former couple finalized their divorce in 2024.
The Holy reset: God wants to restore what you lost this year
IF you had told me the year would start with LA fires, evacuation alerts, and a business slowdown, I probably would’ve sighed and said, “Well… that’s not exactly the way I planned to kick things off.” It was a rough beginning, and honestly, I wondered how everything was going to play out.
But one thing I’ve learned in both faith and finance is that God often uses the moments that shake us to redirect us.
When the mortgage market cooled, I had a choice: I could stress, or I could pay attention. And right in the middle of all the uncertainty, God opened a completely different door—one I didn’t see coming. I stepped into another business that allowed me to help people restore not just their financial confidence but even their self-confidence as they cared for their skin. At first, it felt like two very different worlds, but it turns out God is pretty strategic. He was showing me that He can rebuild our lives through multiple streams, not just the one we’re used to.
This reminded me of something important: when God restores, He rarely focuses on just one area. His restoration shows up emotionally, financially, spiritually, and sometimes—quite literally—on your face. Some people experience restored opportunities, others restored peace… and sometimes He restores your courage before He restores your income. But however He does it, His restoration is always purposeful.
Many people right now feel discouraged about their finances. The market has shifted, rates have climbed, and the future can feel uncertain. But none of that intimidates God. He restores
through wisdom, practical steps, new ideas, and fresh opportunities. Sometimes restoration looks like rebuilding credit, refinancing at the right moment, or exploring an income stream you never thought of. It doesn’t always come with fireworks; oftentimes it’s a steady shift in the right direction, and suddenly you look back and realize God was rebuilding you all along. As we approach the end of the year, it’s easy to think the clock has run out—that whatever didn’t happen by now won’t happen. But God does not operate on this calendar. He can turn things around in December just as easily as January. I’ve seen last-minute escrow breakthroughs and approvals that made no sense on paper. I’ve watched doors open that were shut for months. My own year, which started in smoke and uncertainty, is closing on a much stronger note than I expected. And that’s the beauty of God’s timing: He restores at the exact moment we think everything is winding down.
So if this year felt heavy, unpredictable, or slower than you hoped, don’t count yourself out. Restoration is still possible. In fact, it might already be happening beneath the surface. Ask God what He wants to rebuild in your life, because He is a God who finishes what He starts. Your finances, your confidence, your direction— none of it
Wency Villanueva with corgi Luke.
Luke with Wency Villanueva and Katrina PonceEnrile.
Dolly De Leon Photo from Facebook/@dollyedeleon
by aYie licsi Philstar.com
The Philippines rebuilds its gateways : A nationwide push to modernize air travel
A look at how the Philippines is modernizing its major international airports, the companies and agencies behind the reforms, and what the changes mean for travelers nationwide
by AJPress
MANILA — Across the Philippines, a far reaching overhaul of the nation’s international airports is underway, reshaping how millions of travelers enter, exit, and move within the archipelago.
The transformation spans Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao and represents one of the most ambitious aviation modernization campaigns in the country’s history.
The effort responds to the realities of a nation that depends heavily on air travel for tourism, overseas Filipino worker mobility, business logistics, and domestic movement. For years, many airports faced congestion, outdated facilities, and limited capacity. Today, a combination of public reform and private investment is driving significant change across the aviation system.
Eight major gateways form the backbone of the country’s international air network: Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, Clark International Airport in Pampanga, Mactan Cebu International Airport in Cebu, Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao, Iloilo International Airport, Puerto Princesa International Airport in Palawan, Kalibo International Airport in Aklan, and Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte. Each one is undergoing upgrades intended to improve access, safety, and overall passenger experience.
NAIA enters a new era under private consortium management
For the first time, the country’s main airport is no longer operated solely by government. In September 2024, the management of Ninoy Aquino International Airport was formally turned over to the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation, a private consortium led by San Miguel Corporation.
Under this agreement, the consortium is responsible for running the airport day to day and taking care of its facilities. This includes passenger processing, terminal management, security operations, baggage systems, the upkeep of buildings, and the maintenance of runways and equipment.
Oversight remains with the Manila International Airport Authority, or MIAA, the government agency that supervises and regulates NAIA. MIAA ensures the airport complies with national safety rules, service standards, and regulatory requirements even as daily operations are carried out by the private operator.
Modernization efforts include reorganizing terminal layouts, updating check in and boarding systems, improving passenger flow, and enhancing airside procedures. These initiatives aim to reduce long standing congestion and prepare NAIA for long term growth in both domestic and international travel.
Clark rises as a modern and increasingly preferred gateway North of Manila, Clark International Airport has rapidly evolved into one of the Philippines most efficient international gateways.
The airport is operated by the Luzon International Premier Airport Development Corporation, known as LIPAD, a consortium composed of Filinvest Development Corporation, JG Summit Holdings, Philippine Airport Ground
Support Solutions, and Changi Airports Philippines.
The consortium brings together leading Philippine conglomerates and one of the world’s most respected airport operators. LIPAD manages Clark’s daily operations and maintenance, ensuring that terminal services, systems, and facilities function smoothly. Clark’s newest terminal, designed for efficient passenger processing, is widely noted for its spacious interior, modern amenities, and streamlined layout. The airport’s location along major expressways also offers quicker and more predictable travel times compared to the heavily congested routes leading to Manila. Connectivity has improved with expanded point to point bus routes from Cubao and Trinoma operated by Genesis Transport.
Cebu strengthens its hub status in the central Philippines
In the Visayas, Mactan Cebu International Airport continues to build its role as the country’s second busiest international gateway. The airport operates under a public private partnership that has delivered upgrades to its terminals, commercial facilities, and airside systems. Cebu’s central location makes it a natural hub for both domestic and international routes, particularly those connecting with East Asia and Southeast Asia.
Davao anchors Mindanao’s link to international markets In Mindanao, Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City remains the region’s primary international gateway. The airport is operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, or CAAP, the national government agency responsible for running many of the country’s airports and enforcing aviation safety standards.
Under CAAP management, the airport has improved its runway lighting, navigation systems, and terminal operations to support growing passenger activity and Mindanao’s expanding commercial corridors.
Regional gateways support tourism and regional mobility
Other major international airports help strengthen regional connectivity and tourism. Kalibo International Airport remains a gateway for travelers bound for Boracay, while Puerto Princesa International Airport in Palawan offers modern facilities that support domestic flights and international charter operations.
Iloilo International Airport continues to sustain strong regional and occasional international traffic. Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte serves chartered international arrivals and supports regional access in northern Luzon. All four airports are operated by CAAP, which implements
ongoing improvements to terminals, runways, and safety systems nationwide.
The people and companies driving the transformation
Behind these reforms is a mix of public agencies, private conglomerates, and international aviation partners. These include:
• San Miguel Corporation, led by Ramon S. Ang, overseeing NAIA through the private consortium managing its operations.
• Filinvest Development Corporation, led by the Gotianun family, a major shareholder in LIPAD.
• JG Summit Holdings, headed by the Gokongwei family, another key partner in Clark’s operations.
• Changi Airports Philippines, bringing global airport expertise from the company behind Singapore’s world renowned Changi Airport.
• PAGSS, providing ground handling and aviation services experience across multiple airports.
• CAAP and MIAA, the government bodies responsible for regulation, safety oversight, and airport administration.
The Department of Transportation, which guides national airport policy, infrastructure planning, and long term aviation reform.
This combination of public oversight and private sector involvement is intended to accelerate upgrades, improve service quality, and support long term infrastructure planning.
The challenges and opportunities ahead for Philippine aviation
The reforms taking place across the country’s international airports mark a significant shift in how the Philippines manages its gateways. However, aviation analysts note that progress remains uneven and that continued improvements will depend on sustained investment, coordinated planning, and consistent implementation across regions.
While new terminals, improved runways, and expanded private sector participation have helped ease pressure on Metro Manila, many airports still face infrastructure gaps, limited capacity, and service variability. Airline schedules and route expansion remain sensitive to market demand, operational constraints, and the pace of modernization.
Industry observers say that strengthening the national aviation system will require not only upgraded facilities but also efficient ground transport links, predictable regulatory environments, and long term policies that support competition and connectivity. As the Philippines works to modernize its airport network, travelers may see both improvements and growing pains as the system adapts to shifting travel patterns and broader global aviation trends. n
Nadine Lustre isn’t ready to be a mother—but you can call her one
For award-winning actress Nadine Lustre, family isn’t always defined by blood, but by presence and respect
by allan policarpio Inquirer.net
BEFORE Nadine Lustre became the Nadine Lustre, she was just like any other showbiz hopeful, shuttling across the city for auditions. Almost every day, she and her mother would take the MRT from Quezon City to Makati for her VTRs. The lines were long, and the days even longer.
By the time they were finished, night had already fallen. But before braving the commute back home, they would stop at a mall for a quick dinner of fried rice and siomai—“with lots of chili oil,” she recalls. This routine would go on and on. But though seemingly mundane, the accumulation of these moments turned into an indelible memory.
“I won’t forget that. Now that I’m older, I look back on those times with fondness,” she says at a recent press conference. “It was simple but happy.”
Not done growing up
But more than nostalgia, reminiscing about that part of her life also made her realize what motherhood entails. There she was, pursuing her dreams, guided by a woman who had to give up hers. Lustre is now 32, and her mother was 21 when she had her. She could only imagine what that must have been like.
“I’m wondering what she went through during her 20s. I know things weren’t easy for her because she had to give up a lot for my sake,” she says. Lustre spent her 20s figuring herself out and discovering life; her mother had to do the same while raising another life. It’s an immense responsibility. And she must admit that even now, that’s something she doesn’t think she could do.
“I’m already 32, but I feel like I’m still not done growing up,” she says. “I discovered a lot about myself during my 20s—things I don’t think I would have been able to learn had I become a mother early.”
While real-life motherhood is beyond her at this stage in her life, she’s willing to take on that role, even if only in front of the cameras.
Fears of typecasting
In “Call Me Mother”—a Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry she co-headlines with Vice Ganda—Lustre plays Mara, a former teenage beauty queen who lives a life of regret after giving up her son Angelo (Lucas Andalio) to work as a high-fashion model.
Twinkle (Vice Ganda) contacts Mara to finalize the adoption so he can take the kid with him for his new job overseas. But Mara insists that she will sign the papers only if Twinkle agrees to train her and help her win the country’s most prestigious beauty pageant.
Lustre wasn’t planning on joining this year’s MMFF. In fact, she wanted to take a break from acting for a year to focus on her other passions and business ventures. And at first, the thought of portraying a mother didn’t help her case. In the local industry, an actress transitioning to mother roles is often—and unfairly—perceived as a sign of her aging or a decline in her status as a romantic lead.
“People feared that I might get typecast in that kind of role in the future. Baka biglang mag-mature ang tingin sa ‘kin,” says Lustre, a three-time FAMAS (Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences Awards) acting award winner and recipient of multiple other accolades.
But the prospect of working with Vice Ganda is an opportunity too good to pass up. Her first film, “Petrang Kabayo” (2010), saw her playing support for the superstar comedian. Reuniting now, this time on equal billing, would be a full-circle moment. And so, when director Jun Robles Lana pitched her the project, all she needed to see was Vice Ganda’s name to get on board. Sure enough, the script eventually showed that she made the right decision. Although the film is primarily a comedy, the subjects it explores are no laughing matter.
Lana says it aims to depict the adoption process—the complexities, tedium, and the mental and emotional toll that come with it— as honestly as possible. It’s challenging enough for traditional couples or single individuals, and
even more so for queer people, he points out.
Chosen family
The film also challenges the definition of motherhood, portraying it as something not solely based on gender, but on presence; not on control, but on letting go. It also asks us to rethink what family and sacrifice actually mean.
“My character, Mara, taught me that not being ready for motherhood doesn’t make you a bad person,” Lustre shares. “It’s a beautiful story about motherhood and its different faces and forms. I think it’s important to have this kind of material because it might spark a conversation.”
Working on the film was a learning experience, but it hasn’t necessarily changed her feelings about becoming a mother. What it did, however, was reinforce the importance of the word “mother” not only as a label, but as a term of respect.
Lustre herself is no stranger to being called one. She’s “mother,” as her fans and colleagues would hail her, for her acting chops, progressive takes on femininity and relationships, her outspokenness on politics and social issues, and even her social media “estetik.” In turn, she calls nurturing people she looks up to—those who “inspire you and make you feel so loved and cared for”—“mothers,” too.
After all, Lustre would like to believe that family isn’t always determined by blood. “You can choose your family, and I think that’s such a beautiful thing,” she says. n
Korean Optical Store Transforms Into Cultural Experience Hub
“Came for glasses, stayed for an unforgettable experience” ZEISS Visufit and Momentura photo booth offer differentiated services, boosting customer satisfaction
There was a time when coffee shops were simply places to buy beverages. However, Starbucks succeeded in transforming its stores into a “third place” by adopting a strategy of selling not just coffee, but culture itself, seamlessly integrating into consumers’ daily lives. Now, an optical store is applying this same approach, creating buzz in the industry.
Unicorn Optical goes beyond simply “selling glasses” to become a cultural complex space that provides customers with “The Best Experience.” Implementing Personalized Service Through Advanced Technology
The most striking feature is the German ZEISS company’s “VISUFIT” system. This equipment analyzes each customer’s facial structure and wearing habits through precise 3D measurements to recommend optimal eyewear. The moment customers put on their glasses, they experience not just vision correction, but the value of personalized technology.
Additionally, the “OpticWash” automatic eyeglass cleaner installed in the store uses ultrasonic and professional cleaning technology to make glasses look brand new with just the push of a button. Customers have expressed satisfaction, saying, “My glasses that I’ve worn for years look like new ones in an instant.”
Even a ‘Memory-Making’ Service
Particularly noteworthy is the installation of the photo booth “MOMENTURA.” Customers can take four-cut photos with family, loved ones, and friends while wearing their newly fitted glasses, turning the day
they get their glasses into a memorable occasion.
One customer said, “I came with my daughter to get glasses, and we took photos in the photo booth and played the claw machine—the day flew by. It felt like we went on an outing, not just shopping.”
Attracting Family Customers with Entertainment and Attractions
The store also features various amenities including claw machines and complimentary coffee service. Customers gain special experiences building memories with family, lovers, and friends, going beyond simple eyewear purchases.
Unicorn Optical is establishing itself as a new type of lifestyle store that combines “play, culture, and memories” centered around eyewear.
Industry: “Presenting a New Direction”
An optical industry insider noted, “At a time when offline stores are struggling due to
the growth of online shopping malls, Unicorn Optical’s differentiation strategy is highly significant. Just as Starbucks created coffee culture, Unicorn Optical is meaningful in creating an ‘eyewear experience culture.’”
Another industry expert evaluated, “It shows the possibility that optical stores can expand beyond simple vision correction spaces to spaces that satisfy customers’ emotions and experiences. Unicorn Optical’s experiment is presenting a new direction for the optical industry.”
A Unicorn Optical representative stated, “Our goal is to provide customers with ‘The Best Experience,’ not just a simple eyewear purchase. We will continue to enhance customer satisfaction with more diverse services.”
Assemblymember Caloza presenting a Certificate of Recognition to May Mallari, Owner of
Mara (Nadine Lustre) in Call Me Mother Photo courtesy of Star Cinema and The IdeaFirst Compan
